
Class "P& 65 51 
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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



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AUGUSTUS W. DUBOURQ 



ANGELICA 



Homanttc j^rama 



NEW YORK 
liOBERT DRUMMOND, Pbintku 

1892 



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ANGELICA 



IRomanttc Drama in jfour Bets 



BY 

A. W. V DUBOURG 

AUTHOR OF "POUR ORIGINAL PLAYS," ETC. ; JOINT AUTHOR 

(WITH TOM TAYLOR) OF THE COMEDY "NEW MEN 

AND OLD ACRES," ETC. 



3 






MAB 35 1892 



NEW YORK 

ROBERT DRUMMOND, Printer 

1892 






Y 



Copyright, 1892, 

BY 

AUGUSTUS W. DCJBOURG. 



Acting rights and all other rights reserved 



TMP96-GG7207 



/tors. Xouise Joplfna 

TLbie stocg of a 8ister*artl8t 

is oeoicateo 



But 'tis Reynolds' way 
From wisdom to stray, 
And Angelica's whim 
To be frolic like him." 

Dr. Goldsmith (impromptu lines). 



CHARACTERS. 

Sir Joshua Reynolds President of the Royal Academy. 

Mr. Bartolozzi, R. A An Engraver, etc. 

Mr. Kauffmann Father to Angelica. 

John Northcote A lad from Devonshire. 

His Excellency the Swedish Ambassador. 

Count Strossman First Secretary to the Swedish Embassy. 

Hans Servant to Strossman. 

Fersen Valet to Strossman. 

Sheriff's Officer. 

Miss Angelica Kauffman, R.A. 

Lady Margaret Forbes (in love with Sir Joshua Reynolds). 

Miss Reynolds Sister to Sir Joshua Reynolds. 

Servant to Miss Kauffmann. 



ACT I. 

"She Stoops to Conquer. 

ACT II. 

Count De Horne. 

ACT III. 
Sir Joshua's Bride. 

ACT IV. 

The Valet's Wife. 



ANGELICA. 



ACT I. 

"SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER." 

Scene — Large room in Lady Margaret Forbes's 
house in Grosvenor Square, used as a studio. 
Entrance to room R., entrance to Library l, ; large 
window at end of room looking out into a towfi 
garden. Easel and sitter's chair in centre of 
room; small table near window with engraver's 
appliances. 

Bartolozzi discovered in conversation with 
Kauffmann. 

Bart. Excellently well lodged, friend Kauffmann; 
good north light for work, ah ! and a convenient 
tahle for your cameo-cutting and seal-engraving. 
Comfortable quarters in all respects, I'll be bound. 

Kauff. Lady Margaret is very kind to us; — loves 
Angelica like a sister — would make us stay here till 
Angelica can get settled in the house she has taken in 
Golden Square. She loves painting and artists, does 
my Lady — her love is greater than her art; but her art 
is good enough for a grand lady, though there's no 
bread in it: but she lacks for nothing in that way — 
heaps of money ! 

Bart. Lucky woman ! Give me bread before art : 
I've tried art on a lean stomach. 



8 ANGELICA. [Act 1. 

Kauff. And it made yon an artist, Bartolozzi! 

Bart. The stomach the seat of genius, hey ? At 
any rate, it's a clever teacher and a sharp master. 
But where's Angelica ? I want a word with her. 

Kauff. Attending my Lady Margaret, at Mr. 
Christie's saleroom, the last sale of the Chelsea china 
— they are inseparable. But she will be here directly 
to get on with her big picture " Arcadia " (points to 
easel) which is to compete for membership in this 
new Royal Academy they are all agog about. 

Bart. I'm in for the competition myself. Member- 
ship will be a great honour if the thing takes root 
and lives — I doubt it. Auything stirring with An- 
gelica's love affairs ? 

Kauff. Magnificent things! if I could only teach 
her to play the cards she holds. (Angelica enters 
l.) Between ourselves, two lovers at her feet. 

Angel. Father, you must not talk in this way — 
nonsense ! 

Bart. No secrets with your godfather; but first of 
all, how are you, my child? 

Angel. Quite well, dear father Bartolozzi, if it 
wasn't for this endless bother about love. My father 
gives me no peace; love is such a plague for a woman ! 
Why do people love me? This man is nice, the other 
man is nice, they are all nice altogether, and there it 
ends. I'm sure I was made without a heart, or at 
least just enough to circulate the blood : that's all the 
use I can find for the thing people call a heart. 

Kauff. Be serious! Your settlement in life, it's my 
duty; I'm an old man, I cannot always be your pro- 
tector. I shall not be happy until you are suitably 
married. 

Angel. What you will, to make you happy — even 
my marriage! [Kisses Kauffmann. 

Kauff. Count Strossman and Sir Joshua Reynolds 
for lovers — something grand to choose from, if a 
woman has common wit ! 

Bart. I've heard the rumour, and I've come with 
a caution. Not Count Strossman; it's playing with 
fire. I am told that by the law's of Sweden a noble- 



ACT 1.] ANGELICA. 9 

man cannot marry a commoner — it's no valid mar- 
riage. 

Kauff. Are you sure? Count Strossman! It 
would be such a splendid match for Angelica — my 
daughter a countess! 

Bart. Depend on it, my information is correct; so 
Count Strossman is out of the reckoning. But Sir 
Joshua remains — a great artist, and a title to boot. 

Kauff. Still a painter's a painter, and counts with 
their ribbons and their stars — 

Angel. But counts die, and there's an end of the 
stars. I admire and revere Sir Joshua, indeed I do ; 
but — 

Kauff. There's always a " but " in your love 
affairs. Look you, Bartolozzi, there's a certain young 
man that comes here, Count Strossman's valet, to 
sit as a model for the shepherd in the "Arcadia." 

Angel, (with warmth). Father! What do you 
mean ? 

Kauff. Where there's a man, you always contrive 
to flirt; it makes me half mad! He's a good-looking 
fellow; been brought up as a gentleman, they say — 
the illegitimate son of some great Swedish nobleman, 
that's the story. 

Angel. Silence ! Father, do you think for one 
moment that I should demean myself by giving the 
slightest encouragement to a person in such a position ? 
I may pity him — I may pity a dog. Keally, you must 
think your daughter a fool. A valet! Miss Angel- 
ica Kauffmann — the valet of Count Strossman! It's 
a positive insult! (In changed tones:) There, father 
dear, I know your devotion to me from my earliest 
days. I will do all I can to please you; but Sir 
Joshua, I don't believe he really cares for me — just 
a chat about art — rather animated sometimes, but 
after all only painting-room talk. 

Bart. Trust me, that's how love will begin with 
Sir Joshua. He's very shy with women, keeps them at 
a distance with his courtly manner ; but art is his 
vulnerable point, Cupid's bull's-eye — that's the mark 
for your arrows, Angelica. 



10 ANGELICA. [Act 1 

Kauff. Aye, and the fear of a rival. If Count 
Strossman can't be a husband, he may serve as a 
rival. 

Bart. Curiously enough, I am the bearer of a 
commission from Count Strossman; they want a 
pictorial design for their invitation tickets for the 
big ball they are going to give at the Swedish em- 
bassy. Mr. Cipriani was commissioned to send in a 
sketch, but Count Strossman doesn't like his work — 
too heavy in character. He directs me to offer you a 
commission — fifty pounds for a sketch, — a liberal hand, 
indeed! Something you could knock off in two or 
three hours, light and bright; only he must have it 
this evening without fail, to forward it to the Am- 
bassador, who is staying at Bath for the waters, by 
early despatch to-morrow morning. Cipriani has 
wasted the time. I'm to engrave the plate; I love to 
work from your drawings, Angelica mia ! 

Angel. And sometimes correct the drawing. I 
shall be delighted; fifty pounds would be very nice — 
wouldn't it, father ? with all this furniture to buy 
for the new house. But I was going to see Dr. Gold- 
smith's new comedy this evening with Lady Margaret 
— " She Stoops to Conquer," that's the name, isn't 
it? 

Kauff. Take the fifty pounds, my child, and give 
up the comedy; if the comedy lives, you can see it 
another night; if it dies, as they say it will, you'll 
have been saved a dull evening. 

Angel. I accept the commission, and give up the 
play ; I can knock off the sketch by candlelight. And 
now I'll do a little work on the big picture, finish off 
my shepherd, or I shall be all behindhand with 
" Arcadia." [Rings bell. 

Kauff. Now you are here, Bartolozzi, I want you 
to price some old drawings I picked up in Italy. I 
meant to sell 'em at Christie's — say Carlo Dolce, 
it's a good name just now to catch the buyers, though 
I prefer Raphael — but Count Strossman wants to buy 
them privately. They are in the library. 

Bart. Bravo, Mr. Count ! He's a true patron of 



ACT l.'J ANGELICA. 11 

art ! I'll price your Carlo Dolces, or Carlo any- 
things you like, that will catch your connoisseurs. 
The Count can afford to pay a liberal price. 

[Exeunt Baetolozzi and Kauffman into 
library. Enter Servant. 
Angel. Tell Count Strossman's valet to wait on 
me. (Exit Servant. Angelica goes to table, takes 
up palette, maul-stick, and brushes.) A valet, in- 
deed ! to be accused of thinking for one moment of 
a valet ! It is true he has much to endure, un- 
fortunate young man; that his manners are those of 
a gentleman by birth and education. But a valet — if 
he were not a valet! I am angry with myself; per- 
haps I have been too condescending in my manner. 
There shall be no mistake from henceforth. 

Fersen enters. 

Fersen (bows). I am at your service, madam, your 
very humble servant. 

Angel, (without noticing him, but intent on blend- 
ing colours on the palette). Take your seat, the same 
pose as yesterday. No, no, you must hold the crook 
in your right hand ; don't you remember ? (Takes up 
a gilt crook winch is leaning against easel and places 
it in Fersen's hand.) Extend the right arm as I 
told you. (Returns to easel.) That will do — head 
turned a little more to the right. [Paints in silence. 

Fersen. Madam, what have I done ? 

Angel. Done? What should you do ? You have 
attended according to my directions. 

Fersen. But your manner to-day is so different 
from yesterday, kind and gracious — 

Angel. You interrupt my work; pray be silent. 

Fersen. Silent ! and my fault unknown, and 
therefore unatoned — 

Angel. Fersen, it is not your place to address me; 
you forget yourself. 

Fersen. I do — I have forgotten myself ever since 
I met you. 

Angel. I forbid you to speak. If you will not be 



12 angelica. [Act 1 

silent, 1 must dismiss you. Presumption is most 
unbecoming in a person of your station. 

Fersen. I pray your pity. Oh, have a little 
mercy; recollect the story of my life ! 

Angel. You have told it me more than once. I 
really have no time to lose in fruitless talk. 

Fersen. Are these cold words from the heart that 
has felt so deeply for my misfortunes — that has en- 
couraged me to tell the tale ? Think of it ! Brought 
up as befits the heir to a great title and estate, and 
then, at my father's death, my cruel relations dis- 
cover that my poor mother was a commoner by birth 
— that her marriage before men was invalid — cast 
out with ignominy mother and son into the hard 
world, without a home, without a name ! 

Angel. Once and again, you have told me all 
this, and I have pitied you; can I do more ? 

Fersen. I have told you the one dream, the one 
hope of my sad life — that the nobility of my mother's 
birth may yet be proved. There are good men, good 
lawyers, trying to help me in Sweden — Count Stross- 
man even is trying to help me, in his harsh way. 
Restoration to title and estate ! That large hope 
helped to support me in my misery — and now I tell 
you that from henceforth I discard that hope. 

Angel. What do you mean ? 

Fersen. Bear with me in mercy ! I am half mad ! 
Your coldness drives me to frenzy! I say I have 
discarded that hope. 

Angel. Why? 

Fersen. Because I love you ! If I am restored to 
title and honour, we are separated for ever. I can 
never marry you. 

Angel. Sir, you talk in a very wild and foolish 
manner! You dare to talk of love and marriage to 
me! Count Strossman's valet — 

Fersen. I can fling off the plush ! 

Angel. Be reasonable. A beggar without a name ! 

Fersen. I can win a name or die — the battle-field. 
The world's full of war — and then fame and honour 
at your feet. 



ACT 1.] ANGELICA. 13 

Angel. Discard such absurd thoughts, and once 
more, be silent for your own sake, or I must end the 
sitting; your master, Count Strossman, would be 
very angry. 

Fersen. My master while I choose, but I am not 
his slave. I cannot be silent ! Come what may, at 
least you shall know the truth. I love you, wildly, 
madly, hopelessly, but I love you ! 

Angel. Leave this room — go, or I shall ring the 
bell. [ Goes towards the bell. 

Fersen. And then they will drive me from this 
house. But thus much you shall know: that some- 
where in this world a heart lives for you alone; that 
love, honour, and reverence dwell in tbat heart, yours 
for ever, my gift to you— your possession. Trample 
on it, if you will; scorn it, if you will; but yours for 
ever, till death's mercy ends the pain! 

Kauffmann enters. 

Angel (with agitation). Father, this young man — 
his language — 

Kauff. I overheard his insolence — 

Angel. Let him go. 

Kauff. His master shall be told of this ! 

Angel. No, let him go, I say — I insist! 

Servant enters, announces "Count Stross- 
nian." Strossman enters, followed by a 
servant, Hans, bearing a bouquet. 

Stross. (boiving to Angelica). Good-day, fair 
lady — but some commotion, I fear — 

Angel. Nothing, Count. I was saying that I shall 
not require the presence of Fersen for any more 
sittings — 

Kauff. The Count shall know the truth! This 
young man has forgotten his position, and has dared 
to address unbecoming language to my daughter, 
which ought to be punished ! 

Angel. Not so; a simple rebuke, if you will. As a 
particular favour, I request that no more notice be 
taken of this trifling affair. 

Stross. At your desire, fair and gracious lady, no 



14 ANGELICA. [Act 1. 

undue notice shall be taken. (Calls:) Fersen, my hat 
and cane. 

Fersen. Count Strossman, I am no longer your 
valet. 

Stross. Unwise and hasty — you'll starve ! 

Fersen. There's bread in the world. I have hands 
and strength. 

Stross. True; but your mother lives on my bounty 
— is she to starve ? Be wise; you know me. (Fersen 
irresolute.) Take my hat and cane. (Fersen, after 
a pause, comes forward and takes Strossman's hat 
and cane.) Place them on that table, then take that 
bouquet from Hans and. present it to Miss Kauff- 
mann with your master's devoted service. 

[Fersen obeys. 

Angel. Spare him, I pray ! 

Stross. Pardon me, Miss Kauffmann, I must be 
allowed to have my own way with my own servants. — 
Present the bouquet. 

Fersen. Madam, by my master's command, I pre- 
sent this bouquet to you with his devoted service. 
[Angelica takes bouquet with reluctance. 

Stross. Pray this lady's pardon for your insolence. 

Angel. It is nothing, I protest — 

Fersen. Madam — I — 

Stross. On your knees — obey ! 

Fersen (with intense effort submits and kneels). 
Madam, I humbly pray your pardon. 

Angel, (deeply agitated). It is granted — freely 
granted. (Staggers back, letting the bouquet fall from 
her hand.) Father, I cannot bear this any longer — 
your arm. (Takes Katjffmann's arm.) Lady Mar- 
garet is waiting for me, I must go. 

[Angelica and Kauffmann go out by 
library, he supporting her. 

Stross. (motions to Fersen, ivho picks up bouquet. 
Aside:) So, my fair one loves this young man. 
Knowledge is always useful. (Aloud to Fersen:) 
You love this woman, do you ? Sir, your betters 
first! Fool, have I never flung you my cast-off 
clothes? Attend: you have the list of the guests in- 



ACT 1.] ANGELICA. . 15 

vited to my supper to-night; write a letter to each in 
my name, stating with deep regret that the supper 
is unavoidably postponed; give the letters to Hans, 
who will deliver them personally at the theatre. With 
the exception of the letters, everything as previously 
ordered. 

Fersen. The supper ? 

Stross. Strictly according to orders — no change. 
I shall have one guest, one honoured guest. Go at 
once and write the letters. By the way, the major- 
domo tells me he can't sleep o' nights. I've promised 
him a narcotic ; let him have the bottle from my 
medicine-chest labelled "Sleep." Poor man, I think 
it will give him the repose he requires. Go! 

Fersen (aside). One honoured guest ! Drugged 
sleep, he means. Can it be possible ? A plot against 
her honour ? 

Stross. Why do you linger ? Quickly with those 
letters ! 

Fersen. At once, your Excellency. The supper? 

Stross. I've said so, as ordered — no change. Go ! 

Fersen (aside). In his hands — Angelica alone! 
Can it be ? I will save her, if I die! [Exit. 

Stross. (to Hans). When you have received the 
letters from Fersen, go to Covent Garden Theatre 
and deliver them during the performance — you know 
all the persons by sight; make no mistake, or you'll 
suffer for it. You are not to deliver the letter 
addressed to Miss Kauffmann — destroy it. When 
you have delivered the letters at the theatre, come on 
here with my coach; Miss Kauffmann will be ready. 
When she is safely in the carriage, drive post-haste to 
Chelsea. Don't fail; be secret and discreet. Above 
all, not one word to Fersen, he can't be trusted in 
this delicate affair; some day I shall make you my 
valet in his place. [Hans bows and goes out. 

Stross. To win a woman, is it worth all this 
trouble ? Why, I might win a diplomatic triumph, 
outwit cunning ambassadors, with less labour; the 
process is magnificent, but the result is very small. 
A straight path to fame and honour, and yet I madly 



16 ANGELICA. [Act 1. 

turn aside and pursue a butterfly crushed in the 
hand that grasps it, and then cast away — a residuum 
of tears, remorse — the cold ashes of passion — nothing 
better to show for a triumph. Pooh ! logic to cure 
madness ! It's all in vain; mine she must be ! (Lady 
Margaret enters.) Ah! my Lady Margaret, how 
fares the grand passion ? 

Lady M. Ill, Count. 

Stross. Sir Joshua is constantly at your house. 

Lady M. Angelica is the attraction. 

Stross. That's your opportunity ! Turn the at- 
traction to yourself. 

Lady M. Sir Joshua is absorbed in his love of art. 

Stross. But you are a lady of noble birth, and she 
is only fit to be your waiting-woman. 

Lady M. An artist ? 

Stross. What is an artist in comparison with a 
grand lady? I'm sick of this cant about the nobility 
of art ! 

Lady M. But you love her — you say you love her! 

Stross. Love her? Yes, love her! 

Lady M. But you cannot marry her. 

Stross. Marry her! Our law in Sweden forbids 
the marriage of a noble with a commoner; but, in any 
event, do you suppose I should stoop to marry a ple- 
beian ? Honour enough for her that I choose to love 
her, to honour her with my love. 

Lady M. But Sir Joshua! You know my secret, 
for you yourself have guessed it. I love that man — 
I would gladly marry him; but this woman stands be- 
tween me and my desperate hope. I entertain her in 
this house because she serves to bring him here, but 
I suffer an agony when he comes; sometimes I think 
it were better to send her away and end it all — the 
pain is too great! 

Stross. What was my pledge ? 

Lady M. That she should never marry Sir Joshua, 
because you love her — always that string. 

Stross. I possess another string, which the fortune 
of to-day has discovered. Take comfort — two strings ! 
Come what may, I say she shall never marry Sir 



ACT 1.] ANGELICA. 17 

Joshua Reynolds! (Angelica enters from library. 
Strossman addresses Tier with gallant air.) Fair 
lady, a thousand apologies for that painful scene. 

Angel. Let it all pass, I pray you; and let me 
thank you for that liberal commission — far too lib- 
eral for the work required. 

Stross. And you will execute it this evening ? 

Angel. Certainly; to the best of my power. 

Stross. It's a whim of mine. I want to show your 
work to my guests to-night. They shall decide be- 
tween you and Mr. Cipriani. I wager the victory 
will be yours, and then I must send it off by earliest 
despatch to Bath for His Excellency's inspection. 
We are all impatient for the invitations to be issued 
for the grand ball; it will be magnificent. All the 
Court, all the elite of society will be present — and 
Miss Kauffmann, if she will deign to honour His Ex- 
cellency with her presence. 

Angel. Count, you are too gracious — a humble 
artist — almost a stranger in England. 

Stross. I protest, madam, the honour will be ours. 
There is no honour too great for Miss Kauffmann. 
When His Excellency returns to town, I promise you 
all his patronage and favour ; all my poor influence in 
society is already yours; the commissions will flock in. 

Angel. A thousand thanks for all this unmerited 
kindness! 

Stross. Nay, madam, genius commands; I only 
obey. There were some drawings by the old masters 
which your good father promised should be mine. 
(Kauffmann enters from library.) Ah, Mr. Kauff- 
mann, those drawings — I have your promise. 

Kauff. They are yours, Count, at your service. 
My friend, Mr. Bartolozzi, has just valued them. 
He names a large sum, I confess — one hundred 
pounds ! 

Stross. They are mine. Prompt payment is my 
maxim. 

Kauff. Nay, Count — 

Stross. I have the money, I think. {Takes out notes 
which he gives to Kauffmann.) And now, fair lady, 



18 Angelica. [Act 1. 

if you will graciously accept at my hands the value of 
your commission. [Gives notes to Angelica. 

Angel {starts). "Why — why — I have no change! 
It's a note for one hundred pounds ! ( Offers to return 
note.) Fifty was the sum, and that was too liberal 
by far! 

Stross. Pardon me, that was Mr. Bartolozzi's es- 
estimate; my estimate exceeds his. 

Angel. Father, what must I do ? This is robbery! 

Kauff. Commit the crime, my child, and thank 
His Excellency for his generous patronage. 

Angel. It shall be my best work, that's all I can 
say. 

Stross. And you will bring it this evening to my 
supper, where you will reign as queen, crowned with 
your own laurels. I can promise you the devotion of 
one loyal subject, your very devoted and humble ser- 
vant ! [Bows. 
[Servant enters and announces "Miss Reyn- 
olds, my lady." Miss R. enters, Servant 
goes out. 

Miss R. Lady Margaret, your most obedient. An- 
gelica, Count Strossman. (Bows stiffly to the Count.) 
Lady Margaret, I have come on a double mission. 
Joshua is finishing off a sitting as long as the light 
lasts, and then he'll follow me. First, business; I 
manage all my brother's business arrangements. I 
have to request you, Lady Margaret, to put off your 
sitting for to-morrow morning, as Joshua has received 
a command to attend His Majesty on the affairs of 
the new Academy. My next mission is pleasure. 
Joshua has secured one of the best boxes to-night at 
Covent Garden for Dr. Goldsmith's comedy; he re- 
quests Lady Margaret and Miss Kauffmann to share 
the box with us. We can all go together, and after- 
wards go to Count Strossman's supper in Joshua's 
coach. 

Lady M. I shall be delighted. Sir Joshua is too 
good to honour us in this way! 

Miss R. My Lady, the honour is his; and you, An- 
gelica? 



ACT 1.] ANGELICA. 19 

Stross. I am afraid I must interpose with deep 
regret; but Miss Kauffmann has promised to devote 
the evening to me, the design for our ball tickets, 
which is urgent. 

Angel. I have given my promise to the Count, 
but I shall join you all at supper. 

Stross. My coach will convey Miss Kauffmann 
safely to Cheyne Walk. I only regret that I should 
be an obstacle to this evening's amusement ; but, 
after all, the amusement seems doubtful. 

Miss E. A comedy by Dr. Goldsmith ? 

Stross. I hear on the best authority that Manager 
Colman is in despair; that he has been driven to pro- 
duce the play against his own judgment; that all the 
best actors, Mrs. Abingdon to boot, have thrown up 
their parts — and actors ought to know what a play is. 
A most absurd plot! Just fancy, a man in his seven 
senses mistaking a gentleman's country-house for a 
country inn ! The idea is too absurd for a farce, and 
what person of refined taste could tolerate a farce 
which is to last a whole evening? We have not come 
to that yet, thank the gods! 

Miss R. Dr. Johnson thinks the play an excellent 
comedy. 

Stross. Madam, three or four hours will decide 
between the learned Doctor and your very unlearned 
servant. (Bows.) But unless I'm a fool, " She 
Stoops to Conquer" will go out like a damp squib, and 
be heard of no more in the history of the drama. 
And now, ladies, duties of state call me away from 
this delightful society. Your most obedient, au re- 
voir till to-night, when I shall have the honour of 
playing the host to you in my own inn at Cheyne 
Walk, Chelsea. [Botvs. 

Kauff. Count, grant the favour of a few minutes 
to inspect the drawings which you have purchased. 

Stross. Certainly, if Miss Kauffmann will be good 
enough to point out their beauties. 

Kauff. My daughter will be delighted. In the 
library, Count. Angelica, my child, show the Count. 
[Angelica goes out to library followed by 
Strossman and Kauffmann." 



20 angelica. [Act 1. 

Miss E. I hate that man ! 

Lady M. Dear madam, I protest ; a man of fashion 
and a man of taste! 

Miss E. I hate him, because he is always paying 
attentions to Angelica. 

Lady M. Her attractions and her talent. 

Miss E. He has no right to trifle with her, because 
he can never marry her — that's the law of his coun- 
try. Now once more to business. I never had such 
business on hand before. My Lady, yon must give 
me all the help you can ; my brother is in love with 
Angelica, the first woman he has ever cared for, and 
I'm at a nonplus. 

Lady M. What's the difficulty ? 

Miss E. Women always frighten him. 

Lady M. But he is always so gallant to ladies 
— compliments and delightful flatteries! 

Miss E. That's from fright. It keeps them off. 
Gallantry is his shield, flattery a coat of mail, and be- 
hind the armour sheer fright. But he's in love now 
— dying to make an offer, and he don't know the 
way. You see, women have always existed in his 
mind as ideals, not human beings; so many yards of 
painted canvas, light and shade, drapery, schemes of 
colour, bankers' cheques even, but not flesh and blood. 
Law! "Joshua," I tell him, "talk to her anyhow;" 
but that's the rub; "anyhow" blocks the way. If I 
could only make Angelica understand — just a little 
help over the stones. Couldn't you help us by giving 
her a hint ? Just a wee, tiny hint; very indirect, of 
course. I mean a sort of something round the corner. 

Lady M. My dear Madam, impossible! I could 
not interfere in such a delicate affair! I must be 
pardoned. You must excuse me while I change my 
dress for the theatre; it's getting late. (Aside:) I 
must let Count Strossman know that matters are im- 
minent, if he wants to secure Angelica. \Exit. 

Miss E. If Lady Margaret won't help, I must tell 
her myself. It's very awkward — something round the 
corner is awk ward; but it will be still more awkward 
if the offer is never made. (Angelica enters from 



Act 1.] angelica. 21 

library.) Well, I hope you detest that odious Count 
Strossman; I do! 

Angel. Indeed, Miss Reynolds, you don't do him 
justice! He is vastly gracious and considerate, most 
liberal in his patronage both to my father and my- 
self. 

Miss R. A nobleman, granted; but recollect, he 
can never marry you! 

Angel. The idea of marriage never entered into 
my head! 

Miss R. Well, but there are other people who can 
marry you — there are other people who would like to 
marry you — there are other people's sisters who would 
like you to marry them. (Aside:) I hope that's as 
clear as the best logic. 

Angel. Several husbands, madam ? And all the 
sisters ? 

Miss R. No, one husband, if you are not a goose — 
saving your presence — and one sister-in-law. 

Angel. Madam, I protest — 

Miss R. That's just what you mustn't do! You 
must assent before you are asked, or you never will 
be asked. You must keep " Yes " ready to jump out 
of your mouth like a jack-in-the-box ; the slightest 
touch, snap goes the spring, and presto! there stands 
" Yes " smiling and smirking on your lips. Mark my 
words: a nimble " Yes " will make you a lady of title 
with a fine house, before you know where you are; a 
lazy " Yes " and you may die a spinster! (Aside:) It's 
round the corner, but I think I've made it plain 
enough. (Sik Joshua enters.) Why, here's Joshua 
come to take us to the theatre! Lady Margaret is 
beautifying herself before the glass ; Miss Kauffmann 
can't go because she has a commission to execute for 
Count Strossman. I'll tell Lady Margaret that you 
are here — (Aside to Sir Joshua:) and keep her em- 
ployed. Out with it, Joshua, or Count Strossman 
will carry her off under your very nose, and then 
you'll be sorry in vain. Why, it's so easy; four little 
letters spell love — short and very sweet. [Exit. 

Sir J. (with embarrassment). Madam, I must ex- 



22 angelica. [Act 1. 

press my profound regret that you are unable to ac- 
company us to the theatre. 

Angel. I deeply regret it also; but the claims of 
art are sacred. You will forgive me for yielding to 
their demands? 

Sir J. Assuredly, my dear lady! To an artist, art 
must be the one object of life; emphatically, the sole 
object of existence. 

Angel. I feel that. 

Sir J. With fervour. 

Angel. With my whole heart. 

Sir J. (with warmth). That is the spirit I love to 
behold in the artis — the spirit that leads through 
hard toil to fame. And you, a woman with all woman's 
charms, are positively prepared to forget woman's fas- 
cination for the sake of art, to forego her triumphs 
in the world, in society, to declare yourself the votary 
of art — the painting-room, a cloister, secluded from 
all other thoughts; the devotion of a nun to holy 
vows! 

Angel. A nun? 

Sir J. My dear lady, the fervent artist should, 
above all things, avoid the distractions of the heart. 
Well enough for other women, but fatal snares for 
the artist; the common cares of life quickly invade 
the soul and drive out the nobler thoughts. Let 
other women marry, if they will. Tell me that you 
have forsworn all weakness of the affections ! 

Angel. I have, Sir Joshua; I have cast away all 
such folly. I live for art alone. 

Sir J. Let me grasp your hand on that assurance. 
(Holds her hand. ) It clears away all obstacles from 
the path of fame. (With fervour :) My heart beats 
with yours— we are animated by one common feeling, 
you and I; we are content to live for nothing but our 
noble profession, sympathetic bond-sister, brother, in 
this common link. 

Angel. Sister, if you so honour me — but pupil 
rather. Teach me; I am very humble in the sense 
of my own deficiency. Oh that it might be my 
privilege to watch the growth of your great works — 



Act 1.] angelica. 23 

the untouched canvas already aglow in your mind's 
eye with glorious purpose, the gradual progress from 
the first brush-touch to the crowning triumph! 

Sir J. Ah, Miss Angel, your presence would be 
perpetual inspiration — sunlight to my soul. I feel 
assured that the sacred flame burns in our hearts. I 
can refrain no longer. I will confess the secret which 
fills my heart with joy. 

Angel, (aside). A confession at last ! 

Sir J. Listen; you shall know all. Spirit of tur- 
pentine — 

Angel. Turpentine? 

Sir J. Heated to boiling point; pure white wax; 
boil together for ten minutes — that's all! 

Angel. All? 

Sir J. Delicious vehicle! the very thought of it 
fills the soul with delight! 

Angel, (aside). Varnish and the soul! (Aloud:) 
The very compound I have been seeking in vain! 
My poor " Arcadia" looks so dull and dark! 

Sir J. Let us see. You are always so modest with 
regard to your own work. I love modesty in an 
artist! Diffidence is always pleasing. (They go up 
to canvas.) Excellent progress! Charming senti- 
ment, and colour very pleasant — a little glazing in 
due course. 

Angel. But full of errors, alas! 

Sir J. Not so, not so! Aye, one moment. The 
drawing of that arm — something amiss. I'll show you 
— a bit of chalk. (Angelica offers chalk to Sir J.) 
No, you take it; I want you to make the alteration. 
You see what I mean ? 

Angel. I can't — indeed, I'm — 

Sir J. I'll guide your hand. (Takes her hand in 
his.) Just so. Why, how your hand trembles — my 
arm — your whole frame trembles! Oh, Miss Kauff- 
mann — Angel — if it were only mine to guide you 
— to guide you always! Tell me, could you be con- 
tent with my guidance in art ? 

Angel. Content ? No, happy ! Proud and very 



24 angelica. [Act 1. 

happy. (Stones thrown at window. Angelica starts 
away, listening intently.) Eh, what's that ? 

Fersen (outside). Miss Kauffmann ! Miss Kauff- 
mann! 

Sir J. A man's voice. 

Angel. This is too scandalous and shameful! 

Lady Margaret enters r. Kauffmann enters l. 

Lady M. What is that noise outside ? Thieves at 
this hour? Impossible! 

Angel. Not thieves, Lady Margaret; it is only 
Count Strossman's impertinent valet! 

Lady M. (with concealed exultation). What, that 
handsome young man who has been sitting to you as 
a model f or " Arcadia " ? A model turned into a 
lover! But you attract everybody! 

Angel. Nonsense, Lady Margaret! The insolent 
fellow has been forbidden the house at my desire, but 
he still dares to persecute me in this odious way. 
Insanity, I suppose! 

Lady M. The insanity of love! 

Kauff. Mad or sane, the cur shall be whipped off 
the premises ! Where are the servants ? 

Angel. No, father; let him say what he has to 
say. There must be no concealment; my reputation 
demands a public vindication. (Goes to window and 
throws it open. Fersen is discovered crouched down 
on his knees.) Come in, sir, since you have dared to 
seek my presence in this unwarrantable manner! 
[Fersen rises and enters; he is dazed at the 
presence of the other persons. 

Fersen (to Angelica). Lady, for heaven's sake 
— a word to you in private ! 

Angel. In private ? No ! Speak out, sir. Why 
did you venture here ? You have been already 
turned out of the house on account of your imperti- 
nence! 

Fersen. I dare not speak openly. I can only 
speak to you alone. 

Angel. I say you shall speak openly! I am com- 
promised by your conduct! 



Act 1.] angelica. 25 

Fersen (in low tone to Angelica). I came to save 
you! • 

Angel, (repeating in loud tone). You came to save 
me ? What do you mean ? Speak plainly, I say! 

Fersen (in low tone). Do not go to Count Stross- 
man's supper! 

Angel, (in loud tone). "Do not go to Count Stross- 
man's supper " ? Are you mad ? Why not ? Every- 
one is going — a large party of my friends — all the 
world ! Your words are absurd ! 

Fersen. Do not go, I beg and pray — nay, listen to 
me! For mercy's sake — if you only knew! 

Angel. Silence, sir! Not one word more! This 
is some senseless excuse framed for the moment. You 
know you came here to persecute me with your ridi- 
culous suit — you, a valet! For this insolent folly I 
have already prayed your pardon from Count Stross- 
man. I was wrong; the Count shall be informed of 
this new impertinence! Go, sir, at once! 
Kauff. At once — you insolent varlet ! 

[Snatches up maul-stick and rushes on 
Fersen. 
Angel, (trying to restrain her father). Father, 
no violence! 

[Kauffmann strikes Fersen. With a burst 
of indignation, Fersen wrests the stick 
from Kauffmann, who retires back, half 
drawing his sword. Fersen breaks the 
stick across his knee, restrains himself, 
and drops the two pieces gently at the feet 
of Angelica. 
Fersen. Oh, Miss Kauffmann, may you never have 
cause to repent that blow! Mad — yes, mad! 

\Hurries out of the room by door c. 
Kauff. (to Sir J.). Sir Joshua, I trust the con- 
duct of this insolent menial — my daughter's reputa- 
tion risked in this wanton way by a madman — 

Sir J. (coldly). Sir, Miss Kauffmann's honour re- 
quires no vindication in such a contemptible matter. 
(To Lady M.) My Lady Margaret, it must be time 
to start for the theatre. 

[ Ofers his arm to Lady Margaret. 



26 angelica. [Act 1. 

Lady M. Miss Keynolds is waiting for us in the 
drawing-room. 

Sir J. (bowing with ceremony to Angelica). Miss 
Kauff raann, I have the honour to wish you good-even- 
ing. 

[Sir Joshua leads out Lady Margaret in 
stately manner. Angelica and her father 
watch their exit in silence. 
Kauff. My child — but for that scoundrel, Lady 
Eeynolds! 

Angel. Nay, your daughter — happiness enough 
for Angelica! [She throws herself into his arms. 

CURTAIN. 



Act 2.] angelica. 27 



ACT II. 

COUNT DE HORNE. 

Scene — Ante-room in Count Strossman's mansion 
at Chelsea. Centre, large entrance with double 
doors from a corridor leading from the hall of the 
house. Eight (2d entrance), large entrance 
with double doors to supper-room. Left (2d en- 
trance), corresponding entrance to drawing-room. 
Left (1st entrance), panel door, being a secret 
entrance from garden. The whole scene is bril- 
liantly lighted for the reception of guests. In each 
side of centre entrance are handsome girandoles 
with lights and long cut-glass pendent spikes 
and balls. Table r., settee l. The room is hand- 
somely furnished in the style of the period. On 
rise of curtain, tivo men-servants and two women- 
servants are discovered dressed in rich costumes 
as mock-guests ; they are talking and laughing, 
and displaying their clothes. Strossman enters 
r. ; the servants stand before him in attitudes of 
constraint. 

Strossman (surveys them). Excellent, I declare! 
I scarcely recognise you as my servants. Bear your- 
selves a little more easily, and you'll pass for persons 
of distinction; a clever dash of imitation and the 
outer garb — why, you might be all of noble birth. 
{Aside:) Aye, menials at soul, and yet dress and 
manners serve as often as not for a disguise in the 
world of fashion. (Aloud :) Now, my mock-guests, at- 
tend to my instructions. When my fair guest arrives, 
echo all my words of admiration, praise when I praise, 
laugh when I laugh, follow my moods as they vary. 
Remember, the highest expression of honour and re- 
spect to Miss Kauffmann is the keynote of your 



28 angelica. [Act 2, 

conduct. Play your parts well; you know I have a 
hand. (Hans enters booted and spurred.) Ah, 
Hans, have you delivered the letters postponing the 
supper to all the invited guests at the theatre ? 

Hans. Yes, Count. 

Steoss. Everybody? Are you sure? It would 
destroy my scheme if any one of them turned up. 

Hans. Everybody. 

Steoss. And Miss Kauffmann? 

Hans. Safely on the road. As soon as I had 
placed her in your coach, I galloped forward to pre- 
pare you for her arrival. 

Steoss. Admirable ! To-morrow, count on your 
reward. 

Hans. More than this, Count. I intercepted a 
letter just written by Fersen to Miss Kauffmann; I 
thought it might mean mischief. 

[Gives letter to Steoss, which he opens and reads. 

Steoss. It does mean mischief — a warning in plain 
terms, disclosing the whole story of my design ! 
Curse the fellow ! he dares to stand between me and 
my purpose ! The fool ! he shall rue his folly before 
we part. "Where is Fersen? 

Hans. In the secretaries' room, waiting your 
Excellency's orders. 

Steoss. Hans, here to me. ( Whispers to Hans.) 
Fersen may be dangerous; he must be made sure of 
for to-night — to-morrow he shall be shipped off under 
hatches to Sweden. Let him be secured in the tower 
chamber; he'll be safe there. 

Hans. The secret records, your Excellency ! 

Steoss. They are under lock and key; he can do 
no harm. Go to him at once, say I require the last 
despatch from Stockholm. Here is the key of the 
door {gives key) ; open the door for him, and when he 
enters the room, turn the key quickly: he'll sleep 
comfortably till morning. (Loud knock at hall door.) 
Ah, the fair artist comes. You know my directions 
— have you the phial ready and the wine ? (Hans 
shoivs phial.) Now be quick, and place Fersen under 
lock and key. 



A.CT 2.] ANGELICA. 29 

Servant (heard in hall). Miss Angelica Kauff- 



mann 



Stross. Victory of love ! In another minute she 
will be safely in my power ! 

Voice in corridor. Miss Angelica Kauffmann ! 

[The folding doors centre are flung open. 
Angelica appears in doorway; the mock- 
guests arise and bow. Angelica curtsies 
at entrance; Strossman advances toward 
her. Fersen suddenly appears in doorway 
and tries to stop Angelica's entrance. 
Fersen (to Angelica). Do not enter — you are 
lost ! My letter — you had my letter an hour ago ? 

Angelica (with indignation to Fersen). Leave 
me, sir ! Your conduct becomes unbearable. (She 
advances with indignation to Strossman.) Count 
Strossman, I am obliged at last seriously to invoke 
your interference. This young man's conduct is most 
scandalous; this is the third time to-day that I have 
had to submit to his insolent behaviour! 

Fersen. Hear me, for heaven's sake, or you are 
lost ! 
Stross. Silence, sir ! Ho, there ! 

[Two servants stand in doorway. 
Angelica. Count, I ask for your protection. My 
character is actually compromised by this man's 
persistence; he has no right to address me in such a 
manner. 

Stross. (to Fersen). You hear, sir. Leave this 
room ! 
Fersen. Not while Miss Kauffmann remains here. 
Stross. (sharply to Hans). Fool ! Deal with 
him ! no delay ! 

[Hans and the tivo men seize Fersen, and 
drag him struggling towards the door. 
Fersex (speaking with difficulty). Miss Kauff- 
mann, I tell you you are in danger — shame — disgrace ! 
Stross. Stop the cursed fellow's tongue ! (Hans 
forces handkerchief into Fersen's mouth, and he 
is dragged out by Hans and servants. The folding 
doors are closed after them.) An insolent cur ! A 



30 angelica. [Act 2. 

young man I have befriended in his misfortunes ! 
Madness ! His head must be turned; that's the only 
explanation for such wild folly. (To Angelica:) 
Dear madam, a thousand apologies for this untoward 
reception ! I promise you that Fersen shall not annoy 
you any more by his presence this evening; to-morrow 
he will be shipped off to Sweden. And now permit 
me to introduce you to these good friends of mine^ 
who are here to do honour to your artistic fame. 
Ladies and gentlemen, Miss Angelica Kauff maim, the 
renowned artist ! Count Rupert and the Countess 
of Stralsund; Count Borgen, the Countess Gerssen. 
(They all boiv with great ceremony to Angelica, who 
duly acknowledges, their salutations.) And now, 
fair lady, you must let me tell you that these guests 
of mine are great connoisseurs in art, and|I need not 
say that we are all impatience to see the sketch you 
so graciously promised to execute for my gratification 
this evening. 

Angelica. I have it here, Count, according to my 
promise; but I am afraid it is very unworthy of your 
liberality. If you could have granted me a little 
longer time — 

[Gives sketch to Strosshan, who examines 
it intently. 

Stross. Most lovely ! Look, ladies and gentlemen ! 
(Mock-guests gather round Strossman.) Bright, 
charming fancy ! A dance of nymphs and satyrs, with 
old Pan and his pipes for music, and a whole chorus of 
delicious little cupids in the clouds. Delightful in- 
vention and charming execution! And now I pray 
you to compare Miss Kauffmann's design with the 
design which Mr. Cipriani has furnished. (Takes tip a 
sketch from table, and holds the two sketches together 
for inspection.') To my thinking, there is no com- 
parison: the one is full of graceful feeling, light and 
bright in conception; the other is laboured in design 
and heavy in execution. Ladies and gentlemen, I 
may be a partial judge — no one can be impartial who 
has the honour of knowing Miss Kauffmann ; it shall 
be for your unbiassed judgment to decide which 



Act 2.] angelica. 31 

sketch bears the palm, Mr. Cipriani's or Miss Kauff- 
mann's. Give your verdict. 

Mock-guests. Miss Kauffmann ! Miss Kauff- 
mann ! 

Stross. There's the award; you have won, fair 
artist, as I knew you would. Ho, there ! The wine 
of triumph ! You must know, fair lady, that it is our 
Swedish custom to pledge the victor in all contests. 
(Hans enters bearing a silver jug, followed by a 
servant with six glasses on a salver.) Fill it to the 
brim; the fullest measure is the measure of our 
admiration for a great artist. 

[Hans fills the glasses ivhich servant hands 
to mock-guests and Strossman. 

Angelica. But your other friends, Count — Sir 
Joshua, Dr. Johnson — who will be here directly: they 
may prefer Mr. Cipriani's more solid work to my 
light fancies. 

Stross. They will never reverse the voice of 
Sweden. Fair artist, Sweden drinks to your triumph. 
Miss Angelica Kauffmann ! 

[Strossman and mock-guests drink. 

Omnes. Miss Kauffmann and her victory ! 

[Hans takes salver with remaining glass 
from servant, and in sight of the audience 
pours phial into glass, which he offers on 
bended knee to Angelica. 

Angelica. No, I thank you. Pray pardou me; I 
will not drink now. I scarcely ever touch wine. 

Stross. Our national custom, fair lady. You must 
graciously honour us by acknowledging our pledge. 

Angelica. If you insist — it would be churlish to 
refuse. My humble thanks for your gracious compli- 
ments and honour. Would they were better deserved ! 
[Drinks small portion of the wine. 

Stross. A full draught, fair artist, is the measure 
of your acknowledgment! 

Angelica. Be it so. My lips shall not belie my 
heart. [Drinks off tvine. 

Stross. A thousand thanks to you for so graciously 
honouring the customs of old Sweden! 



32 Angelica. [Act 2. 

Angelica. What a charming house you possess, 
Count Strossmann. Everything around us testifies to 
your love of art. 

Steoss. My house and all its contents are ever at 
Miss Kauff mann's disposal. 

Angelica. You are far too gracious! 

Steoss. Ah! fair lady, I have many bright things 
to please bright eyes. You must see my diamonds; the 
family jewels, set in our old northern setting; lovely 
gold work. You shall choose what you like in 
honour of this happy evening and your artistic 
triumph. 

Angelica. I could not; indeed, you have already 
doubly paid me for my poor work. But our friends 
— what can have detained them ? Surely the play 
must be over by this time. 

Steoss. What friends, fair lady? 

Angelica. The friends invited to your supper. 

Steoss. I have only one friend, who has been gra- 
cious enough to honour me with her presence. 

Angelica. But they are coming — Sir Joshua and 
his sister, Lady Margaret, Dr. Johnson, Mr. Barto- 
lozzi, Mr. Boswell, and a large party. 

Steoss. Fair lady, I repeat, you are my only guest. 

Angelica. But they were invited. They are com- 
ing, are they not ? 

Steoss. In your special honour, I have put off re- 
ceiving those worthy persons. We sup together. 

Angelica. What do you mean? 

Steoss. Have you not long ago guessed my mean- 
ing ? Have you not felt that I loved you ? 

Angelica. Loved me ! 

Steoss. Deeply, passionately, devotedly! 

Angelica. No, no; this is some jest, some ill-timed 
jest! 

Steoss. No jest, on my honour; your devoted lover! 
Can you have been so blind? 

Angelica. Let me go — this moment, I say! It is a 
disgrace to remain in this house! 

Steoss. Angelica, my sweet love, be reasonable. 
You know 1 cannot offer you marriage. The law 



Act 2.] angelica. 33 

of Sweden is inexorable. It forbids the marriage of a 
nobleman and a commoner. You cannot be my wife; 
but have no fear, there will be no scandal in my love. 
My guest for a few hours, and then you will return 
home in safety. Only be discreet and the world will 
never know the story of my happiness. 

Angelica. My shame! Villain! Scoundrel! It 
was true, then — that devoted young man whose warn- 
ing I derided in my foolish faith and innocence! Let 
me go, I say, or I will denounce you in the presence 
of these ladies and gentlemen. 

Stross. My servants — my creatures dressed up in 
your honour. 

Angelica. Impossible! Your servants! Is your 
villainy as deep as this? Servants — yes, but women, 
men, with human hearts. Women, I appeal to you 
as a woman, save me, protect me from that man, I 
pray, I pray! Think, if I were your sister! Disgrace, 
shame, horror — 

Stross. Servants, leave the room ! 

[Angelica tries to cling to the women, but 
they put her away and leave the room. 
Angelica clings to one of the men. 

Angelica. Men, as you are men — a woman, I 
beg and pray for protection ! Do not leave me, do not 
leave me helpless in that man's hands! 

Stross. {to men). Leave the room, I say! (Tfie two 
men thrust Angelica aside and leave the room. 
Close the doors! [The doors are all closed. 

Angelica. No, no, have mercy! Let me go! This 
is some cruel trick to try me! 

Stross. Angelica, sweetest woman! (Approaches 
her.) We are alone. Why so coy ? 

Angelica. Do not come near me; I am dangerous! 
I have strength enough to tear you in pieces! Heaven 
will give me tenfold strength! 

Stross. Nay, sweet one, fear no violence. I abhor 
violence; I shall not win you with violence. I am a 
gentleman, not a vulgar ruffian. 

Angelica. Then let me go. 

Stross, You shall go; I promise that. 



34 angelica. [Act 2. 

Angelica. Now — at once! 

Stross. Impossible! If you left now, you would 
arrive home insensible with sleep. 

Angelica. Sleep! What clo you mean ? 

Stross. A soothing draught. 

Angelica. That wine! 

Stross. A harmless sedative. The effect will quickly 
pass away — an hour's sleep; quiet, unconscious sleep! 

Angelica. That accursed wine! That hellish 
draught! Villain! inhuman monster! {In changed 
tone, casting herself at Ins feet:) No, no, have mercy. 
You must have mercy! Before Heaven, I claim 
mercy! A miserable triumph — a woman, helpless, 
senseless, dead with sleep, unconscious, a victim to 
shame, disgrace! No man could do this — the triumph 
of a fiend, not a man! Such things cannot be in 
God's world! [Sinks down exhausted. 

Stross. You are unduly excited. Sleep awhile, fair- 
est lady — quiet sleep, that's all. I will leave you now. 
This is an inner room ; your voice cannot travel beyond 
these walls. So noise is useless, sleep is inevitable — 
gentle, soothing, lulling sleep! \_Exit R. 

Angelica {raising her head and gazing round). 
Sleep! sleep! Alone — but he will return! Oh, hor- 
ror ! trapped, vilely trapped! There must be some 
escape, some mercy! {Rises and flies to centre door and 
knocks.) I will give gold — gold to anyone who will 
save me — gold, what you will. No answer — no answer; 
all's in vain. No, that other door! {Goes to door 
l., knocks.) Save .me ! I will give you gold, all, 
everything I possess, only save me, a woman, a 
woman's honour ! Mercy ! mercy ! No answer, no 
hope! {Goes back to settee, flings herself upon it, clasp- 
ing her hands over her face, then rises with look of 
despair.) Impossible! it cannot be ! But sleep — he 
said sleep ! Sleep will deliver me a helpless victim 
into his accursed arms. Oh, cruel sleep which wakes 
to shame ! Is sleep stealing on me — the eyelids 
heavy? Not yet, but it will come; the accursed wine 
will work its vile purpose, coursing through the 
veins, dulling the healthy beatings of the heart — 



Act 2.] angelica. 35 

and then the horrible sleep will come, slowly, very 
slowly, like a mist creeping over brain and eyes, 
stealing away every sense, even the burning sense of 
shame — and then, Heaven, senseless, helpless, no 
escape! What help? no help. Only two things 
remain — dishonour or death ! Death ! be it death ! 
How ? how ? Death somehow — how to seek death ! 
Some weapon! what weapon ? (Steals round the room, 
seeking intently). No knife, no weapon, no help to 
death! Heaven, grant me this mercy, that I 
may escape the horror of that shame! Nothing, noth- 
ing to rid me of life — and the brain grows dull — 
sleep will come before I ean find death — death will 
be too late to save me! (A pause, then suddenly look- 
ing round.) Saved ! saved ! (Flies to girandole, 
breaks off one of the spikes of glass, feels the splintered 
point.) Sharp, like a lancet — saved ! Thank Heaven, 
I can die ! (Staggers back to settee and sits, placing 
fragment of glass by her side.) Lie there, close at 
hand; and when I feel the mist rising in my brain, 
why then — then — quick to my heart, so easy ! One 
inch to reach this beating thing of life, and then it 
stops — death — aye, stops for ever. But strength for 
the blow — have I strength ? My hand trembles. 
(Cries.) I am only a woman, and life — my father, 
my poor father — alone in the world ; and ambition — 
to die now, now that I know what my hands can do, 
my brain invent — fame, honours, praise, flattery — 
life's very sweet — and now the full cup of success is 
at my lips, and death to dash it down! I shall never 
have the strength for the blow — I cannot die! I can- 
not die ! Life! I must have life — not cold, pulseless 
death — breathing, beating, burning life — I cannot die ! 
(Clasps her hands in despair over her face. Noise at 
panel door. Starts up and seizes the glass splinter.) 
Who's there? (Fersen enters.) Approach one step, 
and I kill myself before your eyes! I can die. Death, 
not shame — a sharp splinter of glass, and I die at 
your feet ! 

Fersen (in loiv tone). Hush! a friend. But silence, 
for heaven's sake ! 



36 aitoelica. [Act 2. 

Angelica (perceiving Fersen). You! What, you! 
you ! Heaven's mercy ! (Flies to him and clings 
convulsively to him.) You will save me! They have 
given me drugged wine; when the horrible sleep 
comes, watch me, guard me, stand at my side, save 
my honour! Helpless, senseless, but in your arms I 
shall be safe! 

Fersen. Softly, softly! We shall be heard, and then 
they will tear you from me. Sleep will not come. 

Angelica. But the wine ? 

Fersen. I changed the vile drug, and replaced it 
by some harmless mixture. Be assured they cannot 
steal your senses. 

Angelica. My protector ! my guardian ! But how 
did you get into this room? 

Fersen. I was locked into a tower chamber. I 
descended by the ivy — 

Angelica. At the danger of your life ! brave 
and generous ! On my knees (kneels at his feet) I 
thank you! Poor words for a great devotion. You 
have saved me from a fate worse than death — saved 
me from the horror of a polluted life; and in my 
ignorance and pride I have treated you with con- 
tempt and scorn — my father, myself — and yours was 
the true noble heart which risked all for my sake in 
despite of outrage and insult and cruel blows ! What 
reward ? What reward ? 

Fersen (raising her.) Angel, pure and noble, 
my highest reward is to serve you, to save you from 
dishonour and shame. A wide gulf between us, but 
always the idol of my heart to reverence and worship ! 

Angelica. Too generous ! Too noble ! I am a 
poor debtor for a priceless gift. But say, can we fly 
from this horrible place — the way you entered? 

Fersen. Impossible. The house is surrounded by 
Strossman's people. I have devised a better plan. A 
little patience, a little more endurance, and all 
danger will be at an end — all scandal will be averted. 
You will leave this house as you have entered it, 
without reproach. [Strossman enters r. 

Stross. Scoundrel ! You have dared to return ! 



Act 2.] angelica. 37 

Fersen. Scoundrel in your teeth ! Approach this 
lady and you die ! 

Stross. (calls). Ho, there, servants ! 

Angelica (to Fersen). Do not leave me. I am 
very weak; all nerve has gone. And that vile wretch, 
with horrible purpose in his eyes, the fascination of a 
snake! Save me ! save me ! 

[Tivo servants and Hans stand in door, r. 

Fersen. Keep heart, dear lady. I wi^l die ere they 
injure you. 

Stross. Secure that fellow quickly ! 

Fersen (draws). At your peril, men; you know 
my skill at fence. 

Stross. A hundred pounds to the man who dis- 
arms him! 

Fersen. Death, not gold, you curs! Take death for 
your reward ! 

[Hans and the two men draw and make 
a dash at Fersen, but fall back awed. 

Stross. (calls). More men, I say! Disarm him at a 
rush ! . [ Two servants enter door, l. 

Fersen. More cowards ! then the more to die. 
[They again attack Fersen; the two men l. 
rush in and seize him from the back and 
hold him in their arms. 

Stross. (with exultation). Ah, my fair lady, you 
shall not escape my toils! Victory at last ! 

\A loud knock at hall door — consternation 
and surprise. 

Fersen. No, scoundrel, she is saved — saved ! 

Stross. What does this mean ? 

Fersen. Your guests are arriving. Go and greet 
them. 

Stross. Curses on your infernal meddling ! 

Fersen. My counter-plot, which has destroyed 
your accursed scheme. (Voices outside. "Sir Joshua 
Reynolds." The men release Fersen, who turns to 
Angelica. Strossman, with anger goes uj) stage. 
Fersen to Angelica:) You are saved, dear lady! Bear 
yourself bravely ; make a great effort. No one will ever 
know of this shameful insult — no one must ever 



38 angelica. [Act 2. 

know. Your honour is without reproach. You have 
arrived a little before the other guests — that's the 
explanation. Bravely sit on the sofa; you will soon 
recover your self-possession. All is well now; you are 
safe. I am only the valet Fersen, once more; I shall 
watch over your safety, but be assured you shall not 
be compromised by my presence. 

Hans {enters centre door, announces:) Sir Joshua 
Reynolds. 

[Sir J. appears in doorway centre. Stross- 
man advances to receive him ; they bow 
with ceremony. Fersen retires. 
Sir J. A thousand thanks, my dear Count, for 
your kind attention in sending notes to the theatre 
to remind us of this charming engagement — very un- 
necessary: an invitation to Count Strossman's house 
could never be forgotten by the honoured recipient. 
(Loud knock at hall door ; voice outside announces 
"Mr. Bartolozzi.") We are all rather late — much 
excitement at the theatre. I can assure you that " She 
Stoops to Conquer" is a great success — a true, whole- 
some English comedy. If I can claim to be a judge, 
it's a play that will run twenty-five nights at the very 
least, — and even longer, I shouldn't wonder, — aye, 
and be played again a dozen times next season. 

[Hans enters and announces "Mr. Barto- 
lozzi." Bartolozzi enters. Strossman 
receives him ; they bow ivith ceremony. 
Bart. Well, Count, Dr. Goldsmith has had a great 
triumph. I'm in love with Miss Hard castle — a true 
English girl, fresh genuine nature — the sweetest 
girl I ever met. And then the fun of the plot ! As for 
Dr. Johnson, why his big laugh was heard all over the 
house ; he actually thundered with laughter. 

[Hans enters centre, and announces "Lady 

Margaret Forbes. Miss Reynolds." They 

enter. Strossman receives them with great 

ceremony. 

Miss R. Well, Count, the great Doctor was right 

after all. 

Stross. Madam, I humbly bow; your very un- 



Act 2.] angelica. 39 

learned servant was wrong. (Aside:) Twice in one 
day that accursed fellow has defeated my purpose; 
but the third time I shall be quits with him, and that 
prudish minx shall be conquered, let the cost be what 
it may. 

[Miss Eeynolds comes down stage to Angelica. 
Miss E. Ah, Angelica, you ought to have been at 
the play with us. Joshua has been as solemn as an 
owl, thinking and moping all the evening. If you 
muddle it again, I'll never forgive you. It's now or 
never for the nimble "Yes." 

[Miss E. turns up stage to Bartolozzi in 
conversation, and presently they retire to 
the drawing-room. Lady Margaret con- 
verses with Strossman. Eeynolds comes 
down stage and approaches Angelica. 
Sir J. Ah, Miss Angel, so you arrived before us. 
Angelica (with effort). Yes, Sir Joshua, a short 
time. The play must have been very late. (Aside:) 
Oh, if he only knew the agony I have endured! 

Sir J. A most amusing comedy. I wish you could 
have been present. But you were right : art before all 
else. [A pause. 

Lady M. (to Stross.). Look at them, I say; she 
attracts him like a magnet. How will you avert this 
hateful marriage ? It's too provoking — you talk as 
women talk, and do nothing. 

Stross. (to Lady M.). Nothing, you say ? Aye, 
but I shall. The second string — she loves my valet, 
Fersen. A few minutes' patience ; you will see. ( To 
Hans :) In the drawing-room, Hans. This wav, mv 
lady. 

[Leads Lady M. into the drawing-room. 

Loud knock at hall door. Voice outside: 

" Mr. Topham Beauclerk, Mrs. Montagu, 

Mr. Boswell" 

Sir J. (to Angelica). Pardon me, but I'm sure 

you are suffering. Your countenance is so troubled; 

you look as if you had passed through some great 

ordeal, some terrible conflict. Confide in me, let me 

help you. 



40 ANGELICA. [Act 2. 

Angelica. Nothing, nothing, I assure yon. Well, 
it's very absurd, but that little sketch for the ball in- 
vitations — it cost me some trouble; perhaps I was not 
quite in the mood for artistic work, however insignifi- 
cant. 

[Hans conducts two gentlemen and a lady 
past the centre entrance. Voice of Hans 
in drawing-room announcing "Mr. Top- 
ham Beauclerk, Mrs. Montagu, Mr. Bos- 
well." 

Sir J. No, no, my dear lady, the sketch don't 
account for it. Be frank with me. Perhaps my manner 
to you when we parted this afternoon — the ridiculous 
fracas with that impertinent valet — my manner might 
have been somewhat constrained, or even cold. I 
have thought much this evening at the theatre — 
thoughts too deep for words. I have scarcely even 
laughed at dear Goldie's clever fun. 

Angelica. Indeed, Sir Joshua, it is not in the 
slightest degree your fault; your manner is always 
most kind, most helpful to ray poor strivings in art. 
You are a sure friend, in whose honest opinion I can 
trust; a learned adviser in all my difficulties. 

Sir J. Aye, aye; but let me be something more 
than that. Listen to me, Miss Angel; thoughts find 
words now. Let it be from friendship to love, and 
then from love to marriage — my wife. 

Angelica (with exultation). Your wife! Your 
wife! 

Sir J. Yes — my dear, honoured wife! 

Angelica (in changed tone). A great honour !. 
A great honour! 

Sir J. Love, not honour. A wife! All is merged 
in that sacred name. 

Angelica. Yes, honour, always honour. The wife of 
Sir Joshua Reynolds! (Starts up, aside :) Oh, strange 
short hour of a life, from lowest depths of shame to 
highest honour and reverence! 

Sir J. Dearest lady, Angel mine, grant me a gra- 
cious answer! 

Angelica. It is all so sudden. Do not press me ; 



Act 2.] angelica. 41 

I cannot answer now. I have lived hitherto for art 
alone. I cannot be so quickly faithless to my old 
allegiance. Nay, I deeply appreciate the honour you 
have done me; I am very unworthy. Nay, let me 
call you friend, always a friend — a valued friend! 

Sir J, (in constrained tones). Be it so, Miss Angel. 
A friend, then, always a friend; perhaps one day, at 
least, a friend not without hope. 

[With a stately bow Sir J. goes into drawing-room. 

Angelica. Rejected, and my father's anxious pur- 
pose of a wise and eligible marriage destroyed by my 
own act. If he had made his offer this afternoon, I 
should have been his — saved from this past agony of 
shame. But he makes his offer at a moment when love 
— mad, wild love — has entered my heart with resistless 
power. Oh, hero of noblest dreams of chivalry; true 
nobleman by virtue of noblest reverence for woman — 
brave, unselfish, self-denying! Come, if you will, and 
claim my heart! Alas! — the valet Fersen— too proud 
to bend; too modest to claim a reward which he has 
won. He will never stoop to ask for a recompense. 
Why, then it is for me to bend before a noble nature 
— for me to fling away the false trammels of society, 
to claim his heart of chivalry and devotion for my 
own. 

Fersen enters r. and comes down to Angelica. 

Fersen. Honoured lady, I have secured a coach 
for you. You will be guarded by two devoted com- 
rades; they will conduct you safely home. To linger 
here must be an intolerable agony. You have been 
seen by all the company; you can safely withdraw on 
the plea of indisposition. I pray you to let this even- 
ing be blotted from your mind; you must forget all 
the persons who have been involved in this past 
wickedness — aye, whether for good or evil. It is well 
and right that you should forget it all — too infamous 
a recollection for an honourable woman's memory. 

Angelica. One will never be forgotten. 

Fersen. Even that one, I say, who bitterly repents 
his mad presumption this morning. The valet Fersen 
— how should he have dared ? 



42 angelica. [Act 2. 

Angelica. Let him dare. 

Fersen. But the law of Sweden — an illegitimate 
son, and a mother cast out of society. 

Angelica. Let him dare, I say. 

Fersen. What, may he hope ? 

Angelica. Yes, hope! 

Fersen. Hope to win a name and fame ? But 
these will come too late; you will have married, and 
fame will be a bitter mockery. 

Angelica. I will never marry — my solemn pledge 
— so long as I may hope to become your wife, be that 
time long or short. 

Fersen. Angelica, my angel ! Too much joy, too 
much joy for heart and brain ! It will kill me. But 
your father? he will compel you to marry! 

Angelica. My pledge to you. I am strong enough 
to resist my father's importunities ; I will reject every 
suitor till my great hope be at an end — and then, 
what matter ? my father may have his will ; I will 
marry at his command — but not my heart — not my 
heart ! 

Fersen. Oh, glorious hope ! Heaven's fullest bless- 
ing, to redress the hardships of my life — nay, Heaven's 
mercy. It was for this Host title and honour; it was 
for this I was denied name and heritage. Oh, glori- 
ous recompense! a loss by which I have gained the 
noblest woman iu the world! Dear plighted wife! 
then some time I may press you to my heart, some 
time kiss those lips with the betrothal kiss — not here 
— not amid these garish lights — not here in this pol- 
luted house of infamy, but in the sight of Heaven — 
Heaven's pure light and air — Heaven's blessing on a 
sacred pledge. (Servant enters r. and crosses stage 
to l., and standing in doorway, announces " Supper is 
served." Confused murmurs in drawing-room r., 
and cries of " Fersen ! Fersen ! ") What's that ? 
What do they want of me in this moment of joy ? 
( Voice of Strossman, followed by other voices : " Long 
-live the Count de Home ! Long live the Count de 
Home /") Count de Home ! Heaven ! is it possible? 



Act 2.] angelica. 43 

Not now, not now! Happiness gained for a moment 
and lost for ever ! 

[Strossman enters r. with Lady M. on his 
arm., followed by Reynolds and lady, 
Bartolozzi and Miss R, and other 
guests. Strossman on seeing Fersen 
stops in centre of stage and addresses him. 
Stross. Ah, Fersen, I have sent to request your 
presence. I have a great announcement to make. 
No longer Fersen, my valet. Ladies and gentlemen, 
I have the honour to present to you Count de Home, 
in the kingdom of Sweden ; among our nobles, the 
third in rank! ( To Fersen :) I have just received an 
important dispatch. The royal courts have recog- 
nised the nobility of your mother's descent; you 
are restored to the family titles and honours. I am 
ordered by the dispatch to treat you with the honour 
due to your rank; money, ample credit is hence- 
forth at your command. I am your humble servant 
at your bidding. (Bows.) Long live the Count de 
Home! 

[ Guests echo the cry. Strossman and Lady 
M. pass into the supper-room; the other 
guests gather round Fersen with con- 
gratulations. They gradually retire to 
supper-room l., and Fersen is left alone 
with Angelica. 
Angelica. Count de Horne, a thousand congratu- 
lations. You are worthy of your great titles, noble 
now in law, as you have been ever noble by nature. 

Fersen. Alas ! you know not what you say! De- 
spair! despair! The glorious hope is lost for ever! 
dearest lady, plighted wife, snatched, from 
my arms as surely as if death had flung his relentless 
dart — I may never marry you ! 

Angelica. As fatal as that ? In mercy, is there no 
hope ? 

Fersen. Those cruel laws of arrogance and pride 
divide us for ever. 

Angelica. Defy them! Love's defiance — what 
care we for laws ? 



44 angelica. [Act 2. 

Fersen. Impossible! alas, impossible! 

Angelica. Impossible? Not that fatal word — 
there must be some remedy. 

Fersen. No remedy but shame; you cannot be 
my wife — I dare not whisper that vile word, " mis- 
tress " (Angelica starts back.) Have no fear; 
honour shall divide us, not shame. And yet — oh, 
maddening thought ! to lose you now — to lose you 
for ever ! Your presence is so dear and sweet to me. 
Angelica, we cannot part. My dearest, some sure 
refuge, unknown to the world — alone together, 
always true. What am I saying? an insult! I read 
it in your face. Bid me go — no, tell me to stay. Nay, 
as between us a holy love, no shame; always honour- 
able, always noble in my eyes — the idol of my 
heart — 

Angelica. The idol of your heart, but dragged 
down to shame by your own hands — nothing left to 
worship — a woman to despise. 

Fersen. What have I said ? Is the curse of this 
den of infamy laid upon me, tainting with dishonour 
every word of my lips? Bid me go, I say; speak, 
and I will obey. Nay, do not speak — not that fatal 
word which divides us for ever. sweetest love, 
do we live for the world — this false, cruel world ? 
We live for one another; the world of our love is 
large enough for life — a kingdom of happiness with- 
out bounds! What's the world to us ? 

Angelica. Nothing! 

Fersen {with passion). Then mine for ever — 
queen of my world! 

Angelica (shrinking back). I said the world was 
nothing — scorn, dishonour, bitter words — a heavy bur- 
den of shame; I could bear it all before the world; 
my love for you would give me strength; but in your 
sight, alone with you, I could never bear that burden. 
I'm too weak for that; fallen in the eyes of the man 
I love. Loved, I know it, but pitied; the pity of 
your eyes would kill me! the crimson of shame would 
dye my face; every kiss would burn my lips! Our 
world a kingdom of disgrace, not happiness. Go, if so 



Act 2.] angelica. 45 

it must be; let honour divide us, not shame. Go, I 
beg and pray; go, because I love you. 

Fersen. Forgive me for the words I have uttered. 
No safety for honour but in flight. {Murmurs in sup- 
per-room: "Miss Kauffmann.") They come to seek 
you. You will be safe among so many friends. Fare- 
well, farewell, for ever ! 

[Exit 1st entrance l. Angelica starts up 
dazed, and gazes after him. 
Angelica. It cannot be some fearful dream! 
Lover, husband — no, snatched from my arms, like 
death; nay, worse than death — living, yet dead tome ! 
[sinks down on settee insensible. Sir Joshua 
appears at entrance R. 
Sir J. Miss Kauffmann ! every one is asking for 
Miss Kauffmann! 

[As he comes down the stage the curtain 
descends. 



END of act II. 



46 ANGELICA. |A0T 3. 



ACT III. 

SIR JOSHUA'S BRIDE. 

Scene — Same as Act I. Lady Margaret Forbes 
discovered fainting at easel. Strossman enters 
immediately after rise of curtain', he bows to 
Lady Margaret. 

Lapse of a month between Acts II. and III. 

Lady M. Well, Count, these cobweb schemes of 
yours? Time marches apace; in three days Angelica 
will become the wife of Sir Joshua. 

Strossman. But you admit that she loves De 
Home ? 

Lady M. Youth before age and fame — I know it ! 
She treats Sir Joshua, the man I adore with my 
whole heart and soul, as a second string to love's bow. 
Congratulations fall thick upon her, and proud smiles 
and blushes mantle her countenance, the bride of a 
great English artist; and then, as she averts her face 
from the crowd, tears gather in her eyes. 

Strossman. So; we hold the Queen of Hearts among 
our cards ! 

Lady M. You harp for ever on the old string. 
Once more, I say she cannot marry De Home. 

Strossman. If they cannot marry, what harm in 
their meeting ? Urge that point on Miss Kauffmann, 
in mercy to the young Count. Let them meet in 
that full conviction — to refuse would be unheard-of 
cruelty; no woman could deal so hardly with a hap- 
less lover. Let them meet, I say, only once, and 
leave the rest to me. Sir Joshua shall be yours to 
wed — if you can win him. Angelica will be mine, at 
my feet by to-morrow's sun. Have faith; I never 
lose my game when I play for love. 



Act 3.] angelica. 47 

Lady M. Tell me this plan of yours — a mystery ? 

Strossman. Nay, let me keep my secret. Well, a 
woman's heart — call it a harpsichord — I have the 
magic touch — a cunning of my own; the keys are re- 
sponsive to my will. Ensure me this interview, and 
give me free access to your house — it's all the help I 
need. I will retire to the library when I desire to be 
alone. 

Lady M. My house is at your command. But pray 
avoid Angelica; your presence always seems to alarm 
her. 

Strossman. A prejudice easily conquered. She'll 
cling to me before long. 

Enter Servant. 

Servant. Madame Blanche waits on your ladyship 
and Miss Kauffmann by appointment. \Bxit Servant. 

Lady M. I must leave you, Count. The dressmaker 
— the dresses for this hateful wedding. You see there 
is no time to be lost. 

Strossman. I said to-morrow: no time shall be 
lost. {They bow; Lady M. goes out.) Farewell, my 
lady. The dressmaker has intervened most conven- 
iently; I want to be alone in this room for a few 
minutes. Angelica really loves Fersen; I knew it in 
the fiasco of that supper ! I sha'n't fail twice. But 
she cannot wed him as a noble ; true, quite true. That's 
the law of Sweden. And he is a noble, as this decree 
shows (draws parchment document from his pocket) 
most conclusively — drawn in sound legal form, and 
purporting to be duly issued from the Royal Chancery, 
but as yet not authenticated by royal seal. And now 
to find the seal. Old Kauffmann's work-table! ( Goes to 
'table, near centre window, with engraver's appliances 
on it and taper burning.) Ah, here we find it; and 
the forged seal — here it is (takes up seal) and several 
test impressions — excellent as legal evidences of fraud. 
A good die-sinker, on my word! Most opportune that 
Mr. Bartolozzi was unable to execute the secret com- 
mission, and so transferred the work to his old friend. 
And now to seal the document. Ah, useful taper ! 



48 angelica. [Act 3. 

{Takes up wax, melts at candle, and seals document.) 
So; authenticated at last by the great seal of Sweden. 
Good workmanship, Mr. Kauffmann, but it's danger- 
ous work to fabricate royal seals. The penalty is death, 
I fancy. Angelica, mia bella, have no fear, I will 
save your father's life when he lies fast and close in 
Newgate gaol. I win this coup, Angelica, doubly 
sure. Father and daughter in my grasp. (Listens.) Ah, 
the good old Kauffmann returns to his labours. I'll 
to my books in the library! [Exit into library. 

Enter Kauffmann, speaking back. 

Kaufmann. One peep, my child, at the bridal 
dress when it is fitted on. Your old father is so happy, 
so happy! (Turns to table.) I must to my work, 
Signor Bartolozzi will be here directly. I promised 
that the seal should be ready to-day. But my child's 
wedding dress — Sir Joshua's bride; every fold must 
be worthy of his brush. Sweeps of drapery in graceful 
lines, and underneath no lay figure, dull and cold, 
but flesh and blood, a living picture for an artist's 
arms. (Bartolozzi enters.) Ah, the dear Barto- 
lozzi! You've come in the nick of time for a rare 
sight. 

Bart. Is the seal finished, old friend? Business 
first! 

Kaufmann. Almost. (Takes up seal.) A little more 
polish, and I'm off to the ivory-turner. 

Bart. It must be delivered to-day. 

Kaufmann. You're sure you hold a safe commis- 
sion for its execution? It looks like some royal seal — 
a coat of arms and a crown. It would be forgery, 
would it not ? 

Bart. You can trust me. I hold the order for its 
execution from the Ambassador of the State to which 
it belongs, signed by his own hand. But this rare 
sight ? 

Kaufmann. Angelica in her wedding dress! It's 
my design — a rich harmony of gold and bronze, yet 
sober. They are to go to church without fuss and 
parade, and they are to go off from the church down 



Act 3.] angelica. 49 

to Richmond Hill for the honeymoon. Sir Joshua 
hates the thought of a gaping crowd. 

Bart. Well, old friend, it's a right good match for 
our Angelica. 

Kaufmann. Aye, aye; but for that cursed law of 
Sweden, she might have been a great countess. Poor 
young man, I know how deeply he loves her — begs 
and prays me to let him see her for one last interview; 
but Angelica refuses to see him. 

Bart. Angelica is right — steadfast in her love and 
loyalty to Sir Joshua. 

Kaufmann. But a countess — a countess ! She's 
the idol of my life. (Angelica enters.) Nothing too 
good or too noble for her; she's worthy of the highest 
honour. 

Bart. The hand of a great artist. 

Angelica {coming down). A far greater honour 
than Angelica deserves. 

Kaufmann. Angelica, mia bella. Now Bartolozzi, 
gaze and praise. Grandly, my child — stately pose. 
Here, these folds, one moment ! (Arranges her dress.) 
My design, but these dressmakers are not artists; still 
the intention is not wholly lost, and the colour is all 
my own. 

Bart. A triumph, Kauffmann, worthy of Sir 
Joshua's magic brush. 

Kauff. Worthy of a coronet, I say. 

Angel. What are coronets to me ? We artists 
rise, if we can, and win our crowns of fame, patents 
given by our own hands. I am but a poor handmaid 
in art; but he, the man I love, stoops from his van- 
tage-ground and raises me to share his name and 
fame — can kings give higher honour ? A husband to 
esteem and love, a master to instruct, and the world 
will say of Angelica's work : " The sweetness was her 
own, but the grace and strength she gained were her 
husband's gifts, though weakly rendered by a woman's 
hand." That's honour enough for me. 

Bart. Hold to that, Angelica, mea, yet bear your 
honours with a smile; don't let this weight of honour 
subdue your lighter nature. He'll love you for the 



50 angelica. [Act 3. 

smiles, this master of woman's sweetest moods — the 
light and shade of a woman's face, if you will, not al- 
ways shadow. 

Angel. Dear Bartolozzi, I am subdued; I can't 
help it. Love has come to my heart in sober garb, and 
yet with great joy. (Tears come into her eyes.) Well, 
tears of joy, and just now this dress, perhaps; mar- 
riage seems so solemn as the day approaches. You've 
had your peep, dear father. I'll change the dress, and 
be Angelica once more — your own daughter, who 
owes everything to your love and devotion ! 

[Kisses Kauffmann. 

Kauff. Angel mine, always my sweet Angel! 
(Wipes Ms eyes.) I'm an old fool! None of your 
laughing, Bartolozzi ! 

Baet. I love to see your happiness, old friend; 
she's my god-daughter. I'm as big a fool as her real 
father! 

Enter Miss Reynolds. 

Miss E. I can't endure my Lady Margaret any 
longer; the dressmaker's having a warm time of it, I 
warrant you. (To Kaufmann:) I like your design 
vastly well, Mr. Kauffmann; rich and flowing and 
artistic. I'm sure Joshua will be delighted. 

Bart, (to Kauffmann). Come, you've had praise 
enough; let's to the ivory man and finish this seal 
business. We've dealt with the dress as costume and 
colour; let's leave the ladies to deal with the snippings 
and pinnings. Ladies, your most obedient! 

[Bart, and Kauffmann go out. 

Miss E. Yes, a very handsome dress, but to my 
taste it's a little too serious for a wedding-dress. 

Angel. But recollect, it's a travelling-dress, and 
Sir Joshua — 

Miss E. (with emphasis). Joshua! 

Angel. Joshua! 

Miss E. Say " Dear Joshua ;" let me hear you dis- 
tinctly. 

Angel. " Dear Joshua." 

Miss E. Well there, I never saw such a pair of lov- 
ers ! Miss Angelica Kauffmann and Sir Joshua Eey- 






Act 3.] angelica. 51 

nolds ! Loves and doves, and bliss and kiss — not a bit 
of it! All so stiff and courtly and stately. Why, you 
demure darling, love isn't a minuet of bows and 
scrapings ! 

Angel. But your brother — consider who he is! 

Miss E. Well, it isn't my idea of love, but perhaps 
you're right. The lips he loves to paint, bliss and 
kiss, have always scared him back to the covert of his 
painting-room. As to lover's talk of sweet nothings, 
not one word; but placid converse as to composition 
and outline, faint breathings of chiaroscuro, murmurs 
of scumblings and glazings, lispings of varnish — he 
was doomed to die a bachelor if he hadn't met a 
woman whose only passson was her love of art. 

Angel. Say at least that her passion was her love 
and reverence for her husband's greatness. 

Miss R. Pooh ! pooh! I do love to tease you both. 
My Joshua, he's very great, of course, but to me 
he's the sweetest and the kindest and the most gen- 
erous man that ever lived. I know you feel that too. 

Angel. I know it, I know it. Would that I were 
really worthy of his love! [Cries. 

Miss R. You are, dearest. Come, come, no tears. 
(Sir Joshua enters.) Why, by all that's wonderful, 
here's Joshua! I've made your bride-elect cry — 
wicked Fanny as I am. Give her a kiss, Joshua, 
and set it right. 

Sir J. Dearest ! [ Kisses Angelica's hand. 

Miss R. Lips, Joshua, lips! 

Sir J. (in courtly tone). Miss Kauffmann! 

Miss R. "Angelica," Joshua! When shall I ever 
teach you to say " Angelica " ? 

Sir J. Angelica, my darling — as dear, wicked 
Fanny insists. [Kisses Angelica in stately way. 

Miss R. Pooh! Joshua, that's the way to kiss a 
sister, not a bride. Let me — (kisses Angelica) — 
strong in the mouth, love on the lips ! 

Sir J. But respect in the heart, as well as love, 
Fanny; and Angelica — 

Angel. Is assured of this love. What but love 
could have caused an artist to desert his painting- 



52 Angelica. [Act 3. 

room at this hour of the day — to be false to his sweet 
mistress, Art, noble as she is sweet — to come courting 
a poor foolish woman, a thing of whims and worries, 
ripples on the surface of his placid life! 

Miss R. Well, it isn't my sort of love, but I'm glad 
you like it. Give me Romeo and Mr. Garrick, swear- 
ing and tearing; Juliet and Mrs. Cibber, sighing and 
crying. 

Sir J. Fanny, consider : a Romeo rather hard of 
hearing, and a Juliet who has won her laurels — who 
has gained the highest honour in her profession. 

Angel. What do you mean ? 

Sir J. Miss Angelica Kauffmann, Royal Academi- 
cian. 

Angel. Impossible! 

Sir J. Your diploma; signed this morning. 

[ Gives paper to Angelica. 

Angel. But your gift, awarded to me for your 
sake; my honour, but gained by your merit. 

[Kisses Sir Joshua with fervour. 

Sir J. There, Fanny, Juliet has kissed Romeo. Is 
this love? 

Angelica. Love, and admiration, and gratitude. 

Miss. R. (with a bow to Angelica). I congratulate 
Miss Angelica Kauffmann, R.A. — Lady Reynolds 
elect ! 

Angelica. The higher honour ! 

[Gives her hand to Sir Joshua. 

Miss R. Well, I must go back to my Lady Mar- 
garet and protect the dressmaker, or it will be murder! 

Angelica. And I also. 

Miss. R. You have your excuse, Angelica. A lover 
— a pair of lovers — a pair of paint-brushes in love ! 
How Signor Cupid must laugh at your courtship! 
Maul sticks instead of arrows ! [Exit Miss R. 

Angelica. Dear Fanny ! she loves her joke. But 
why not love in sober reason, instead of unreason ? 
Not wild random love without valid cause; the mad 
love which ends in despair, which flings wisdom and 
consequences to the wind. 

Sir J. Angel mine, no matter how it came about. 



Act 3.] angelica. 53 

You came to me — I was alone and like to have been 
alone to the end of my life. You came to me with the 
love of my love, art — with the sympathy which is born 
of common knowledge, of common aspirations. The 
ignorance of other women, gazing idly at the canvas, 
would have been a perpetual worry; and empty chat- 
ter often pains my ears; but you would stand at my 
side, and you would feel as 1 feel, every touch of the 
brush, its meaning and its purpose, as clear to you as 
to me— a silent converse, sweeter than all idle words. 

Angelica. Honoured beyond all women ! 

Sir J. Loved. Your painting-room will be next to 
mine! 

Angelica. Master and pupil! 

Sir J. Nay, fellow-students, Angelica. In the great 
school of art we are always students, and you will be 
my sweet model — always Angelica, like Andrea del 
Sarto's wife. 

Angelica. But she was faithless ! 

Sir J. But he loved her — he had no choice but 
love for her. Those dreams of mine that wait reali- 
zation — the unpainted pictures of the brain — I have 
found my perfect model at last But this new dress ? 

Angelica. I never meant you to see it till I stood 
at the altar — my wedding dress. 

Sir J. I like it, this rich gold and brown. 

Angelica. My father's design. 

Sir J. Very pleasant and full of rich harmonies — 
flowing drapery. Sit, darling. (She sits in sitter's 
chair.) I have it! An old fancy of mine which has 
been lurking in the brain many a year — the Muse of 
Art. Let me place you in the pose I have imagined 
— so, sweet one! (He arranges her attitude in accord- 
ance with that of Mrs. Siddons in the Tragic Muse.) 
Asphalt and crimson lake for richness and depth — 
then glazings of gamboge. Don't move awhile, dear- 
est. What a courtship for a painter — you and I to- 
gether! Love's commission — the smiles I love to paint, 
my own; given to me, your heart's gift; and the 
eyes, the language of the soul, poured out for me. 
What inspiration for an artist ! It will be my great 



54 angelica. [Act 3. 

work, Angelica. They shall gaze on it in the after- 
days when this hand is dust — his masterpiece, they'll 
say; for Love was the master who inspired the work! 
What, tears, darling, tears ? 

Angelica. Yes, tears, tears ! (She sinks from the 
chair and kneels at his feet.) Heaven, make me 
worthy of this great love and honour — guard me from 
all temptation! I have been a flirt, inconstant — nay, 
let me speak the whole truth to you. And now I am 
face to face with nobleness and steadfastness, and I 
tremble for my poor weak nature — a vain, frivolous 
woman. I cannot be sure of myself. 

Sir J. (raises her tenderly). I can. Love makes us 
strong and true. I know you love me. I know you 
will never be false to your heart, be the sacrifice what 
it may. 

[Miss Reynolds enters. 

Angelica. Never! never! (Aside:) Heaven help 
me! 

Miss E. It's time to be off, Joshua. I've saved the 
milliner's life — I'm not sure it was worth saving! 
Bless me! love makes you forget your appointments. 
Dr. Johnson will be waiting for his sitting. Hey-dey ! 
Why, you've made your bride cry yourself! The 
" Mourning Bride" — it's very fine, but give me come- 
dies — "Love for Love" — bright and light — the love 
that laughs ! 

Sir J. Steadfast aud true, Fanny. Husband and 
wife— the love that endures. Farewell, Angel. Dr. 
Johnson's time is too valuable to be lost even for a 
lover's happiness. Don't forget the dinner-hour in 
Leicester Square— you and your father. Fanny and 
self, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Goldsmith. Dear Goldie, 
he'll make us laugh — comedy for this evening, that's 
sure! 

Miss R. Farewell, bride-elect. Fanny is longing to 
resign the power of the keys into your hands. 

Angelica. Would they were worthier hands ! 

Sir J. The worthiest a man could desire— the fair- 



Act 3.] angelica. 55 

est a painter could paint. Henceforth these hands will 

be my models. Farewell, Angel mine, an revoir ! 

[Miss Reynolds goes to door. Sik J. clasps 

Angelica in his arms arid kisses her 

forehead. 

Miss E. Kiss her again — lips, Joshua, always lips. 
Eeal lips don't smudge like paint. (Sir Joshua 
kisses Angelica's lips.) Now come along, quick, or 
Dr. Johnson will begin to growl like a bear. 

[Sir Joshua goes out. Angelica throws 
herself into a chair at the table, and clasps 
her hands over her face. A pause. 

Angelica. I do love him, I do love him ! How 
can I help loving him ? So kind, so sweet, so gentle, 
so great. I know his greatness; I have seen great 
men's works, dead and gone — I have weighed their 
greatness, and he is great as they are great. And yet 
he's so humble — a student still. Mine, this genius ; 
mine, his honour and renown; mine, his grand humil- 
ity — Lady Reynolds, his wife ! What a crown of hon- 
our for a woman to wear ! What's it made of, this heart 
of mine- — dull lead, cold marble ? No response. Does 
my soul rush to the lips when his lips kiss mine? No 
spark of fervour, no flame of love. Burnt out — the 
past? No, still there; that image is still graven 
there, strive to hide it as I may, holding my heart 
with resistless force. I cannot marry that man; it 
never can be^ — hopeless, impossible! Then why re- 
pine ? Why vainly sorrow through long sleepless hours 
of the night ? Why, he saved me from fatal sleep, and 
now I cannot sleep, and wakefulness of sorrow repays 
my debt to him. But for his image, I could love Sir 
Joshua with my whole heart. Perhaps time. Time's 
a slow physician ! I must bear the torture till time 
does its work of mercy. (Kauffmann enters, pres- 
ently followed by Lady Margaret. Angelica starts 
to her feet.) Oh, father mine, dearest father, such 
honour! Have you heard ? 

Kauffmann. No, Angelica mia ! 

Angelica. Your daughter a Royal Academician ! 
Just think of it: a woman a Royal Academician ! 



56 Angelica. [Act 3. 

Kauffmann. A woman ! But art knows no sex. 
{Embraces her.) My darling child, your old father, 
he reaps his reward — his child's honour, the crown of 
his old age ! 

Lady M. {interposing). A thousand congratula- 
tions, dear Angelica ! 

Angelica {with forced exultation). Thanks, 
Lady Margaret, a thousand thanks! No congratula- 
tions can be too great for my great fortune. What 
honour greater than the love of the great man who 
has chosen me to be his wife ? The thought half 
turns my head with joy and exultation. Dearest 
father, words can't tell the joy and pride I feel — he 
is so good, so noble ! 

Lady M. Angelica, dearest, forgive me; I have a 
request to make. You are so happy now, so full of 
assured happiness, that perhaps you might spare 
some little sympathy for one who suffers deep sorrow 
for your sake. 

Angelica. What do you mean ? 

Lady M. Count de Home ! (Angelica starts and 
shudders.) He prays one last interview, one last 
farewell. He leaves England immediately — this very 
day, perhaps ! 

Angelica. I have written to him, the kindest 
letter I could write; but I cannot see him — once for 
all, I will not see him. 

Lady M. But, in reason, tell me why ? 

Angelica. An interview can only be painful to 
him. 

Lady M. But not painful to you. Your heart is 
full of joyful love for your affianced husband. Spare 
him a little sympathy and pity — he sorely needs it, 
poor young man ! 

Angelica. Is he so — so very — 

Lady M. Cast down in the depths of despair. He 
only seeks to bid you one eternal farewell. At least 
you might grant him that small consolation. 

Angelica. But Sir Joshua — he would not — 

Lady M. Sir Joshua is too generous to object to 
an act of kindness and mercy. I repeat, Count de 



Act 3.] angelica. 57 

Home cannot marry you ; if he were in that position, 
depend on it, I should not be his advocate, in com- 
mon justice to Sir Joshua Keynolds and yourself. 

Angelica. I will not see him. Let this matter 
cease. 

Kauffmann. My child, he has begged and prayed 
me to ask you to grant him this one last interview. 
His prayers are so persistent — I do think you might 
grant him this small mercy. 

Angelica. Father, I will not listen to another 
word on the subject. Go to him, I insist, and tell him 
my determination. His persistence is unmanly and 
cruel. Go, I say; find him, and end this painful 
affair. Go; if you love me, go ! 

[Kauffmann goes out. 

Lady M. Why, dear Angelica, one would think 
you doubted your own heart ! 

Angelica. Doubt my own heart ! That's Sir 
Joshua's ! This young man, what is he to me ? 

Lady M. Then see him. 

Angelica. I will not ! 

Lady M. Brave words. If the truth were told, I 
believe you dare not ! 

Angelica. Dare ? 

Lady M. Dare not, I repeat — because, in your 
heart of hearts, you love him. 

Angelica. Take care, Lady Margaret; words of 
this nature will destroy our friendship. See him — of 
course I can see him; but why such useless pain to 
him ? He's nothing to me, I repeat; utterly indif- 
ferent. If you dare me in this way, I will see him. 

Enter Servant. 

Seevant. The Count de Home waits on your 
ladyship. 

Lady M. Announce the Count when I ring. 

[Exit Servant. 

Angelica. This is some design, some cruel plot. 

Lady M. Your conduct is absurd. You say he is 
nothing to you. Let me ring the bell. The interview 



5g angelica. [Act 3. 

will be over in a few minutes; he will be consoled, 
and yon will be spared all further importunity. 

[ Goes towards hell. Angelica strives to hold 
her back. 

Angelica. No, no; spare me, spare me ! I can't 
see him; I will not see him ! 

Lady M. Don't hold my hands in this rough way ! 
[Breaks from Angelica and rings bell. 

Angelica. I won't see him, I say ! I'll lock my- 
self into my own room till he leaves the house ! 

[Goes towards door. 

Lady M. You'll meet him in the hall. 

Angelica. Through the library, then ! (She goes 
to library door, enters, titters a cry, and flies back.) 
Oh, horror! Count Strossman ! 

[Servant enters and announces " The Count 
de Home." Fersen enters. Servant 
retires. 

Fersen. Miss Kauffmann — Angelica — 

[He advances towards her; she shi'inks back. 

Angelica {in broken, hurried voice, standing at 
bay). Why do you come in defiance of my refusals? 
I say it is unmanly to persecute me in this determiued 
way. Well, you have come, and to what end ? You 
are Count de Home; I am Angelica Kauffmann, the 
affianced wife of Sir Joshua Reynolds. That fact ends 
everything. 

Fersen. I have only desired one last interview 
before leaving this country for ever. My route is 
prepared for Harwich; I only wait for the legal docu- 
ment from the Swedish embassy confirming my 
restitution in blood. I leave London immediately on 
its receipt. Oh, Angelica, you are happy in your 
coming marriage; be generous, and spare a little pity 
for one who is doomed henceforth to bear an eternal 
sorrow in his heart ! 

Angelica. You go to wealth and honour; a great 
nobleman in your own land — what more for a man's 
ambition ? 

Fersen. I leave the treasure of my life behind. I 



Act 3.] angelica. 59 

cannot speak as I would speak, as I must speak. 
Lady Margaret, grant us a few minutes alone. 

Angelica. Lady Margaret, do not leave this room, 
I beg and pray ! 

Lady M. Only a few minutes. What harm in a few 
minutes' conversation ? 

Angelica. In justice to me, in justice to Sir 
Joshua. 

Lady M. I shall be in the library, close at hand. 
[Goes towards library door. 

Angel. You shall stay, or I will go. (Follows 
Lady M. towards library, then starts back. Aside:) 
Count Strossman! Is there no refuge left? 

Fersen (to ith fervour). Ah, Angelica, why afraid 
of me ? Was I not true to you in that dark hour of 
your life? Did I not save you from shame and dis- 
grace ? I make no boast; but, through my devotion, 
you will go to the altar and wed your husband as an 
honourable bride. Is this not true? 

Angel. It is — it is! (Aside:) Heaven help me! 

Fersen. And now, now that I cannot marry you, 
forbidden by those accursed laws; with a burning pas- 
sion in my bosom, with endless wealth at my com- 
mand, I do not seek you with false, deluding words, 
and urge you to be my mistress, if you cannot be my 
wife — disgrace to the woman I reverence and adore. 
Then why fear me ? Why shun me ? Why not let 
me bear away one gracious remembrance of this final 
interview ? Be merciful! You go your way to happi- 
ness, a happy marriage with the man you love; I go 
my way to solitude and sorrow. 

Angel. Leave me — leave me! I cannot, I must 
not talk with you. 

[*$'/*!? sits at table, clasping her hands over her face. 

Fersen. What, no better words than coldness and 
scorn — no poor words of simple gratitude, of common 
sympathy? Is this your nature, is this your heart? 
Hard to be borne, and bitter for the soul. But I thank 
you, madam, for this interview; it has taught me that 
the woman I loved was an ideal of my own creation — 
that the woman I thought I loved possesses a heart 



60 Angelica. [Act 3. 

of stone. You can summon Lady Margaret; our in- 
terview is at an end. Farewell, madam, for ever! 

[He moves towards the door. Angelica, who 
has striven to restrain her feelings, bursts 
into violent sobs. 

Angel, {bitterly). Tears from a heart of stone! 

Fersen {returning to her). Angelica, it is not 
true; you are playing some false part, disguising your 
heart. Your tears speak the truth. You love me — 
love me — 

Angel, {starting up). I love you, I do love you ! 
I never knew how much I loved you till this hour. I 
felt I must hide from your presence; that then I 
might wrench away the feeling. But I never knew 
its strength till now! 

Fersen. Angelica! 

Angel. No lie shall stand between us in this last 
interview. I do love you, my hero, my protector! 
Bear away that thought, and bear away this thought 
also: that you have honoured and revered the woman 
you love. Go forth into the world ; remember your 
exalted position; do great works and noble deeds. 

Fersen. I might — I think I might. But all energy 
iu me is paralysed — fame is not love! 

Angel. But duty and honour remain; work for 
them. Men have stern work to do. Make me proud 
in the thought that I have loved you. Be brave and 
strong; be true to your own noble nature. Leave me 
with these words buried among our hearts' treasures, 
this last interview of honour. Farewell! 

[Holds out her hand for him to kiss; heclasjjs it. 

Fersen. Grant my last prayer — your lips — the 
death of our love — the last cold kiss of death! {She 
lets him hiss her.) My lost love! My lost love! Fare- 
well! I will give you no more useless pain. I bless you 
for the consolation of this parting! "Proud in the 
thought that I have loved you." Farewell, Angelica! 
[He kneels at her feet, kissing her hand. She 
lags her other hand on his head in solemn 
attitude. He rises, turns, and goes silently 
towards the door. 



Act 3.] angelica. 61 

Lady M. Pardon my intrusion, but Count Stross- 
man desires to see Count de Home forthwith. 

Strossman enters. 

Fersen (to Strossman). I have forbidden you 
to enter this lady's presence. 

Stross. A hundred apologies ; but here is the impor- 
tant document. I learnt that you were paying your 
respects to Lady Margaret. It has just been received 
at the Embassy. This decree declares you ennobled 
in blood, a hight count of the kingdom of Sweden. 

[Gives document to Fersen. 

Fersen. A noble! But the final end of all hope! 
Would that I were Fersen still! Would that it were 
false! Some shameful forgery! 

Stross. It bears its own authenticity — the great 
seal of Sweden. 

Fersen (looks at seal). The great seal of Swe- 
den, truly enough. Count de Home by solemn de- 
cree! Oh, mother, dear mother! restored to all the 
honours of your rank! Your son rejoices for your 
sake; he sorrows for his own. (Suddenly to Stross- 
man:) Why do you linger, sir, still in this lady's 
presence ? Begone at once ! 

Stross. (bowing). I obey, Mr. de Home. 

Fersen. Mr. de Home! What do you mean? I 
am by rank the third greatest nobleman in Sweden 
— Count de Horne — under this seal. 

Stross. Pardon me, sir. Read carefully the terms of 
the decree. From to-morrow — the date of the decree 
is to-morrow, the 25th June, 1769 — from to-morrow 
you are ennobled in blood; but to-day you are merely 
a commoner, without any of the rights and privileges 
of nobility. Saving the presence of these ladies, I, as 
a noble of the third class, cover my head in your pres- 
ence. (Puts on his hat.) Mr. de Horne, to-day — to- 
morrow, Count de Horne in all his dignity and 
honour. 

[He hows to the ladies and goes towards door. 
Fersen stops him. 

Fersen. You say I am only a commoner to-day ? 



62 angelica. [Act 3. 

Stross. A simple commoner. 

Fersen {with intense agitation). Then — then — 
Tell me— 

Stross. I know what you would ask; I hurried to 
you, for there was no time to be lost. Small thanks 
have I received. You know our laws; the patent of 
nobility ennobles a commoner and his wife from the 
date of creation, but from and after that date a noble 
can only wed a bride of noble birth. To-day you are 
free to wed as you will, and to-morrow you and your 
wedded wife become ennobled in blood — count and 
countess by the law of Sweden. 

Fersen. Angelica! 

[Angelica has listened intently during this 
dialogue. She stands transfixed, with her 
hands in painful tension. 

Stross. The canonical hour is not yet passed ; the 
priest is still to be found in the Koman Catholic 
chapel close at hand in Farm Street. But time flies; 
in half an hour marriage will be impossible until to- 
morrow — (boivs) — and to-morrow will be too late for 
your marriage with a commoner. (Boivs.) Ladies, 
your most obedient! (Aside on threshold:) The 
battle is won! [Exit. 

Fersen (passionately). Angelica, not death — life! 
love! All he says is true! I know the law. You will 
rise with me, my honoured wife; but now, at once! 

Angel. This is madness! I am affianced to an- 
other! Impossible! A crime! perjury unmeasured! 

Fersen. But you love me! 

[Lady M. steals out of the room. 

Angel. But I'm engaged to another, I say! Plight- 
ed, pledged! Leave me, in mercy, leave me! 

Fersen. With love in your heart — you swore you 
loved me! 

Angelica. I said so, but I said more than I meant. 
I was cajoled into seeing you. I was prayed by others, 
by my father even, to be kind in manner, to give you 
some consolation. But — well, I spoke words I really 
did not mean — not in their fulness. Things are 
changed now. Go ; leave me if you have any generosity. 



Act 3.J angelica. 63 

Leave me, or I shall hate you. Once for all, my hand 
belongs to another; it's irrevocable — a plighted word, 
a bond of honour. 

Fersen. That kiss! 

Angelica. Which ended all between us — a sacred 
kiss of death. Go, I beg and pray! (Calls:) Lady 
Margaret, tell this man to leave this house; his pres- 
ence is an insult to me. Lady Margaret, I insist ! 

Fersen. Lady Margaret has left the room. 

Angelica. This is some plot, some shameful 
scheme! 

Fersen. Cruel and unjust ! Have I ever been un- 
true ? Have I ever sought you unworthily ? Once 
more, remember that dark hour! Cruel woman, is 
this my reward ? 

Angelica. I cannot tell what I say ! My brain is 
dazed ; you see my anguish. Go, leave me. Why am I 
to be tortured thus ? Your love is cruelty and pain ! 

Fersen. I will go — never to see you again — on this 
condition. Tell me, looking me steadfastly in the 
face, that you do not love me; that all your profession 
of love was a lie to deceive me in my despair, to dis- 
miss me with a falsehood cherished in my heart. 
Speak those words, and I leave you for ever! 

Angelica (with supreme effort). I say, " I do not 
love you ; all my profession of love was a lie." 

Fersen. To deceive me. 

Angelica. " To deceive you." 

Fersen. In my despair. 

Angelica. " In your despair" — (Suddenly:) No, 
no, I love you! Perjured, false, unworthy, I love you ! 
Honour or dishonour, life or death! Heaven help me, 
I cannot help myself! 

Fersen. Life and honour — my wife! (Enter Lady. 
M.) Lady Margaret, Angelica is mine! I have won 
the precious jewel of my coronet! 

Angelica (to Lady M.). False, perjured, un- 
worthy, not mistress of herself, yet knowing right and 
wrong, but helpless to do right, compelled by some 
awful power! Tell him — tell Sir Joshua he must 
never look upon my face again ! In mercy to him, 



64 angelica. [Act 3. 

have no mercy when you speak of me — despicable, 
frivolous, a jilt — well saved from such a wife. Tell him 
at once, without delay; promise me! 

Fersen. Come, Angelica, dearest wife, not this 
self-reproach. Love has conquered; you have been 
true to your heart. The precious minutes fly; come! 

Angelica {starting). Not in this dress — my 
wedding dress, his bride! Let me change it. 

Fersen. What matter? There is no time, dearest; 
I cannot lose you now. 

Angelica. Take me as you will. My heart has 
spoken, not my conscience. It were better I had died 
than endured this torture. False, false ! let the world 
scorn me as I deserve! 

[Fersen leads her out clinging half helplessly 
on his arm. 

Lady M. Gone — that man's wife, my rival no 
longer ! 

Enter Strossman /rom library. 

Strossman. Ah, Lady Margaret, the magic touch 
— this harpsichord of a woman's heart! 

Lady M. It was a hard fight; and though I have 
won, I pity her. 

Strossman. Ah, a fine nature vanquished, helpless 
at my feet — full zest of pleasure! In a few hours she 
will cling to me for assistance! 

Lady M. But her husband — the powerful Count 
de Home? 

Strossman. Her husband? But never in his 
arms; she will quickly spurn him with contempt and 
scorn. The wheels are moving quickly now. Go to 
Sir Joshua, play your game with skill: sympathetic 
deprecation, not hard blame. Men are often won in 
these sudden revulsions of feeling. The love motive 
once stirred in the heart is not easily put to rest. 

Lady M. Sir Joshua is painting my portrait; I have 
a sitting to-morrow morning. 

Strossman. Why, fortune is playing your game! 
A clever touch of sympathy, and his heart will fall 
into your hands. 



Act 3.] angelica. 65 

Lady M. You are a magician of the heart. 

Strossman. Call me a magician when Angelica is 
mine. Till to-morrow, fair lady! 

[Exit. 

Lady M. Tender, sympathetic; a favourable impres- 
sion in the first hour of disappointment, deepening 
more and more till the torn tendrils of love cling to a 
new support. Excellent device! (Rings. Servant 
enters.) My carriage! (Exit servant.) And then, 
hey, for Leicester Square! Shall I reign there in 
place of the deposed Queen of Hearts ? It's a splendid 
chance, and Til use it with my best skill. 

[Servant enters and announces, " Miss Rey- 
nolds," my lady! Miss E. enters and 
servant withdraws. 

Miss R. There's no mistake about Joshua now; 
he's over head and ears at last. He's sent me with 
these flowers; Angelica's to wear them to-night in her 
white dress. It's a new scheme of colour he wants to 
study; the idea flashed into his head as we were going 
home. The very thought of her seems to bring fresh 
inspirations; so, hey presto! I'm sent with the 
flowers while he paints Dr. Johnson. The Doctor is 
growling away like a caged bear, but, bless you! 
Joshua only smiles, for he can't hear the growls. 
Growls and smiles — it will make a grand picture be- 
tween them then; very brown and rich, like your old 
sherry wine. But where's Angelica? 

Lady M. Miss Kauffmann has left the house. 

Miss R. What a bother! I can't stay. I'm respon- 
sible for the dinner, and the great Doctor will growl 
all the more if the dinner goes wrong. Oh, by the 
bye, have you heard the last bit of gossip ? Why, 
that young Count de Home who has been flashing 
about town is no count after all. He has deceived 
everybody at the Swedish embassy with false papers ; 
borrowed money on false pretences; a vulgar im- 
postor ! 

Lady M. Impossible! 

Miss R. They are after him now — warrants are 



66 angelica. [Act 3. 

out. Count Strossman is my authority; he told me so 
as I was entering the house! 

Lady M. (aside). Then the wheels do move 
quickly ! 

Miss E. Did Angelica go out with her father ? 

Lady M. No. 

Miss R. Alone, then ? 

Lady M. Yes — I mean — I suppose — 

Miss R. What do you mean ? 

Lady M. I can conceal the cruel truth no longer. 
I am overwhelmed with grief and shame. I can scarce- 
ly speak the hateful words. That wicked, deceitful 
woman has been false to your brother! 

Miss R. Angelica false to Joshua! It will kill him! 

Lady M. You must not meet her again, dear Miss 
Reynolds. 

Miss R. False to Joshua! I must get home to him. 
I must be with him when the blow falls! 

Enter Servant. 

Servant. Your ladyship's carriage! 

Lady M. Let us go at once. That false woman has 
entrusted me with a cruel message for your brother. 

Miss R. You are a dear, good woman; I can see by 
your tears that you feel for poor Joshua! 

Lady M. Indeed I do, Miss Reynolds, from the 
depth of my heart. Rest on my arm. 

[Lady M. leads out Miss R., followed by 
servant. Strossman enters cautiously 
from library, followed by kvo Bow Street 
officers. 

Strossman. Search that table — Mr. Kauffmann's 
working-table! [Officers search. 

First Officer. Impressions of the forged seal, 
your Excellency; drawings of the seal. 

Strossman. Secure them; you'll have to swear 
where they were discovered. (Looks out of windoiv.) 
Ah, husband and wife! they return. Here! (Beckons 
officers to windoiv.) You see that man and woman. 
The man is Fersen, my valet. When I give the word, 
you'll arrest him. Here's the warrant — forgery, the 



Act 3.] angelica. 67 

great seal of Sweden. It's death ! Mark your man ! 
Now retire. {Officers go out by library.) Sir Joshua 
gone, Fersen arrested — the third lover remains. Ah. 
Angelica, in the toils now! I defy you to break the 
net! 

[Goes into library. Angelica and Fersen 
enter, ushered in by servant. 

Angelica. Has Lady Margaret left the house ? 

Servant. Yes, madam, in the carriage. 

Angelica. What address ? 

Servant. Sir Joshua Reynolds, Leiceister Square. 

[Servant goes out. 

Angelica. It is well. He will know the truth — 
avoid me from henceforth. His reproaches would kill 
me! 

Fersen. Dearest wife, the anguish you suffer is 
for my sake! 

Angelica. Bear with me a little. I have been faith- 
less to my word; it weighs on my conscience. But be- 
lieve me, (with fervour) I shall be faithless no more, 
because I love you. You can trust me, I say ! 

Fersen. My darling wife to-day; by to-morrow's 
dawn, the noble Countess de Home! 

Angelica (with passion). To-day your wife, to- 
morrow your wife — your wife to my life's end! I have 
married you, that's my highest honour; not a title, 
however exalted — married you, since you were free to 
marry me. But still a bride with tears, not smiles; for 
I am false and perjured, and I have given pain to a 
noble heart. You said you were ready to leave 
London this afternoon. Let's go. 

Fersen. So suddenly for you ! no preparations! 

Angelica. I can pack a few things; only let's leave 
this hateful city. I tell you, if I meet the man I have 
wronged, it would kill me. Dearest husband, grant 
me this prayer; don't let me linger here another hour. 
When I am safely away with you, I shall smile again; 
all is anguish now. 

Fersen. Be it so, darling wife. In less than an hour 
the post-horses shall be here, and then for your new 
home and new honours! Farewell, sweet one! 

[Kisses her forehead. 



68 angelica. [Act 3. 

Angelica. Don't be long away; I can't bear your 
absence. A sickening fear besets me! 

Fersen. Not many minutes, dearest wife! [Exit. 

Angelica (sitting at table). Alone. What a whirl 
of agony it's been. This room strewn with my false- 
hoods, liar that I am! Judged now — the still small 
voice — faithless, perjured, in whispers. — (In changed 
tone of resolution:) No, before Heaven and men, I'll 
not budge one inch! I don't repent! I love him — my 
husband, my husband! If punishment must fall on 
me, I will bear it all for the sake of my love ! (Stross- 
man stands at library door watching Angelica, her 
head buried in her hands.) Footsteps! Oh, joy! he 
returns, he returns! (Strossman retires by library 
as Sir Joshua enters.) And now we fly from 
London. — Back so quickly, dearest! 

Sir J. Yes, Angel mine! 

Angelica (starts up in terror, and gazes on Sir 
Joshua with dazed countenance). You here ? You 
have come here ? Is it possible ? Have you not seen 
Lady Margaret? 

Sir J. No. 

Angelica. She went to your house. (Aside:) Oh, 
Heaven, not this awful punishment on my sin! 

Sir J. We must have crossed one another. 

Angelica. Then you don't know — 

Sir J. Yes, my poor child, and that's why I have 
come to you in your grief. Your poor father — 

Angelica. My father! 

Sir J. Let me hold you in my arms, Angelica, — to 
■ my heart, your sure refuge; sorrow needs a lover's 
support! 

[He tries to fold his arms round her, but 
she disengages herself with effort. 

Angelica. I don't understand. My father, you 
say — what of my father? 

Sir J. Then you haven't heard ? Arrested on a 
false charge — it must be false — of forging the great 
seal of Sweden. 

Angelica. Forging — the seal of Sweden! 

Sir J. It's absurd. Of course it can all be explained, 



Act 3.] angelica. 69 

but for the time he is in custody. It's a wicked story, 
my poor darling. They say he was employed to do it 
by that swindler, the valet Fersen, who calls himself 
the Count de Home. 

[Fersen enters in custody of the two officers. 
Angelica turns, utters a cry of agony, 
and exclaims, "My husband!" She 
falls down in a swoon at the feet of Sir 
Joshua. Strossman appears at the door 
of the library. 



CURTAIN. 






70 angelica. [Act 4. 



ACT IV. 

THE VALET'S WIFE. 

Scene I. — Sir Joshua Keynolds's painting-room. 
Octagonal room lighted by window r. Door centre 
r. half concealed by a folding screen. Door centre 
l. entrance to room from -picture-gallery. 
Chair for sitters, raised eighteen inches from 
floor. Easel, table with palettes, brushes, colours, 
&c. Sofa against centre wall. Northcote dis- 
covered setting palette. 

[Miss Reynolds enters. 

Miss R. Mr. Northcote, is everything ready for 
Sir Joshua ? 

North. Yes, madam. 

Miss R. He must have no small worries to-day; 
everything to hand. Is Lady Margaret Forbes's can- 
vas on the easel ? Her second sitting, is it not ? 

North. The third. The head is blocked in; I have 
been at work on the drapery. I have just set Sir 
Joshua's palette according to his practice, so he will 
be able to begin painting without delay. 

Miss R. Thank you, Mr. Northcote; you work for 
a good master. 

North. Good and great, Miss Reynolds! I can 
never do too much in my insignificant way to help 
him. He helped me, a poor lad from Devonshire. 
" His house is to me a very paradise! " 

[Servant enters l. and announces " Lady 
Margaret Forbes." Lady M. enters and 
servant ivithdraws. Northcote goes out 
door r. 

Lady M. Dear Miss Reynolds, I have kept my 



Act 4.] angelica. 71 

appointment with Sir Joshua, not having received 
auy intimation to the contrary; but surely he will not 
work to-day ? 

Miss R. He will, he will! 

Lady M. But so soon after the conduct of that 
heartless jilt, a woman so unworthy of his love! 

Miss R. He says the brush is his best consoler — and 
after the brush his sister Fanny. I wish, for his sake, 
that I were only half as good as a brush. 

Lady M. He loved her so deeply. What does he 
say? His just indignation at such vile conduct — 

Miss R. He says nothing. I only wish he would 
speak and have it out; I think silence will break his 
heart. 

Lady M. Silent even with you ? 

Miss R. Her name is never to be mentioned again 
in this house; that is all he said when he returned 
home. He was very quiet and thoughtful all last 
evening, but I heard him mutter from time to time, 
" Poor woman ! what a fate, what a fate ! " 

Lady M. A man so deeply wronged! 

Miss R. Alas! and a woman so deeply loved ! I 
can't understand him; I should have been furious. I 
don't pretend to understand him; but something 
tells me that, with all his greatness, he was never 
greater than he is now. Don't speak or allude 
to her; I think it would kill him. I will tell him 
you are here, and then I must go my daily round 
of housekeeping. It's very strange; no break in the 
circle: trot, trot; the donkey at the wheel. The world 
always eats, sorrow or joy. He has sent to invite his 
old cronies to dinner to-day — the great Doctor, and 
poor Gi-oldie, who missed their dinners yesterday, and 
Mr. Burke. He bears it so bravely, I only pray 
Heaven he mayn't break down; but it's hard to bear, 
even for a resolute man. Farewell, dear Lady Mar- 
garet. [Exit r. 

Lady M. Farewell, dear Miss Reynolds. And now 
to play my game — cool, cautious, subtle. He clings to 
love, that's clear; it only remains to efface one im- 
pression from the heart by substituting another. Love 



72 angelica. [Act 4. 

the passion, then a simple transference: it should be 
very easy with an easy, pleasant-going man. 
[Sir Joshua enters r. 

Sir J. Good-morning, Lady Margaret. Most punc- 
tual ! A great lady who keeps strict appointment witli 
an artist — it's a marvel! 

Lady M. But you know my love of art, Sir Joshua, 
my admiration; it leads me, I fear, to waste my time 
in hopeless striving to be an artist myself. But 
at least it enables me to sympathize with artists and 
their labours, and their grand aspirations; my poor 
painting-room at home is my happiness from morn- 
ing to night. 

Sir J. Ah! admiration, fervour of soul. I like that 
expression; it suits your face. Let's catch it ere it 
flies. Take your seat, my lady. (She sits.) So; excel- 
lent attitude, natural, elegant! Ah! you say you love 
art and artists ? 

Lady M. With enthusiasm! 

Sir J. (painting). The fine artistic glow — excellent! 
— the sustaining spirit with which we must encounter 
difficulties and overcome them — and art is difficult — 
pain and hard labour — ideals which are never satis- 
fied; bright hopes which die away in sorrow. 

Lady M. I should rejoice to suffer for a high pur- 
pose, a grand ideal. 

Sir J. (painting intently). Good, good! noble sen- 
timents for travellers on the thorny road of art. (Be- 
comes absorbed in work.) Ah me ! many are called, 
but few are chosen. 

Lady M. (aside). Fair progress, and assurance of 
my love for art, and then an imperceptible substitu- 
tion of the new love for the old, both in the same 
guise — a masquerade of hearts, perhaps, but all life is 
a masquerade. (Aloud:) Shall you go to the masked 
ball at the Pantheon rooms, Sir Joshua ? They say it 
will be so grand; all the rank and fashion. I love to 
see the fancy dresses; they always look like subjects 
for a picture. One wants to group them. Sir Joshua, 
I asked. He does not hear. I'll try another subject. 
Sir Joshua, were not the Venetians the greatest colour- 



Act 4.] angelica. 73 

ists? — Intent on the canvas, but he never looks at 
me. Sir Joshua, I was asking. — Deaf, or he won't 
listen. May I see your method of laying in the 
colours — only a moment? No answer; I'll take the 
liberty on myself. (She leaves lier seat and steals up 
behind Reynolds, who does not perceive her.) Why, 
that's not my face, it's Angelica's face — every feature 
Angelica; a striking likeness. That woman ! Why, 
this is a positive insult to me. (Aloud:) Sir Joshua! 
(He starts.) Sir Joshua, you are not painting my por- 
trait — 

Sir J. (breaking from his reverie). Eh, your por- 
trait ? Yes, yes, my dear lady, yes — oh, I see ; I've 
missed the expression; its all got wrong and muddled 
(Calls:) Northcote! Northcote! 

[He sinks into a chair, clasping his hands 
overhis face. Northcote enters r. and 
comes tip to Sir Joshua. 

North. Yes, Sir Joshua. 

[Places his hand on Reynolds's shoulder. 
Sir Joshua starts up. 

Sir J. Take that canvas away — it's spoilt; scrape 
it out. Bring me a fresh canvas. (Northcote goes out 
ivith canvas l.) Pardon me, Lady Margaret. (Boivs.) 
We'll set to work again. So, you really love art, and 
artists, and painting-rooms. Good, very good. Oh, 
you said the Pantheon. I shall be there ; I love the 
bright dazzling sight, the music and the dancers. 
The honour of one dance, Lady Margaret, if I'm not 
too old a partner, and if I am fortunate enough to 
discover you under a mask. (Boios. Northcote 
enters l., carrying canvas.) Here's Northcote. Now 
to work. 

North. Sir Joshua, a lady insists upon seeing you. 
She will take no deniali; it's imperative, she de- 
clares. I believe it is Miss Kauffmann; indeed, I'm 
sure it's her figure. 

Sir J. I will not see her — I will not see her! 

North, (listening at door l.) She's coming up- 
stairs; they can't keep her out. 

Sir J. LadyJVTargaret, I must leave you. If that 



74 angelica. [Act 4. 

woman insists upon entering this room, I have left 
the house, my sister is not at home. I must ask you 
to dismiss her — firmly, not harshly; she ought to 
know that I cannot see her. 

[He goes out e. Northcote goes to door l. 
Sounds without of expostulation. Voice 
of Angelica: " I say I must see him." 
Angelica enters, her face partly concealed 
by a veil. 

Angelica. Where's Sir Joshua ? 

Lady M. He has left the house, madam; your 
strange intrusion has driven him away. How can you 
have the audacity to venture here — the house of the 
man you have so shamefully deceived ? 

[Sir Joshua re-enters room, and remains 
concealed behind screen. 

Angelica. Despair has brought me. You have 
driven me from your door; all doors are closed against 
me. I am alone; I know not where to turn for help. 
My husband in prison, my father in prison; Barto- 
lozzi has left London in alarm. My father is to be 
brought up for examination this morning — no friend 
to speak for him. The lying accusation is so strong, 
so horribly strong! He will be committed for trial. 
It will kill him — kill him ! Sir Joshua's word for 
his character might alter everything — save him from 
this disgrace. 

Lady M. Shameless woman ! You dare to come 
to Sir Joshua to beg for his help after deliberately 
breaking your plighted word — after marrying an 
impostor, a weaver of forgeries and lies ! 

Angelica. It is false ! My husband is no im- 
postor; he is the victim of deception. 

Lady M. The testimony of the Swedish Embassy — 
Count Strossman— 

Angelica. The forgeries and lies are his devilish 
invention ! 

Lady M. Incredible story ! 

Angelica. I have not come here to excuse my 
conduct, or even to attempt it; but thus much I can 
urge: Count Strossman has long pursued me with 



Act 4.] angelica. 75 

dishonour. One fatal night he held me in his toils — 
a helpless, unsuspecting woman, lured to his house — 
alone, with a drugged cup prepared. Sleep — drugged, 
helpless sleep — was to have delivered me an unresist- 
ing victim into his vile power — shame and disgrace. 
I stand here an honourable woman, because the man 
I have married risked everything — life itself — in my 
own despite, notwithstanding the hardness and scorn 
I had heaped upon him, to save me from this fate 
worse than death. He is in prison, and I am alone 
and helpless; but that vile wretch pursues me still 
with his loathsome suit, with his hypocritical offers 
of sympathy and help. In this house at least I am 
safe from insult and outrage. 

Lady M. An improbable story ! What night ? 

Angelica. That supper night after the play. 

Lady M. Ridiculous invention — an outrage in the 
presence of a large company of guests! I was present 
myself. A clear tissue of lies! (Sik Joshua comes 
forward from behind screen.) Sir Joshua, I regret 
to say that this heartless woman has the effrontery to 
linger here. She has told me some absurd story which 
on the face of it is false. 

Sir J. I heard the story, my lady; I believe it. 
(Angelica sinks to the ground.) Lady Margaret, I 
must ask you to postpone this sitting; I find I am not 
in a state to do justice to your portrait. Forgive me; 
I must wish you good-morning. (Calls:) Mr. North- 
cote! (Nortcote enters.) Lady Margaret Forbes. 
Will you see her ladyship to her carriage? 

Lady M. Am I to leave you — leave you with this 
false, heartless woman ? (Sir Joshua makes no 
reply, but stands gazing on Angelica.) Deaf ! The 
fool! he loves her still. I should like to tell him. 
Useless — deaf, or won't hear. My scheme breaks 
down; my game of love has been played in vain! 

[Follows Northcote out of the room. A pause. 

Sir J. Rest assured, I will do all in my power to 
help your father, of whose innocence there can be no 
question. I will go at once to Bow Street with my 
own attorney. A new light breaks upon me. Count 



76 angelica. [Act 4. 

Strossman — there may indeed have been foul play, 
foul, disgraceful purpose. I'll search it out; the 
guilty shall not escape! 

Angelica {in loiv broken tones). I dare not 
speak to you — I dare not speak! 

Sir J. I dare not hear your voice ! (Northcote 
enters.) Mr. Northcote, will you please to order a 
coach for this lady? (Northcote bows and goes out.) 
I would have you remember these last words which 
end all intercourse between us. I have not judged 
you in bitterness, but in sorrow; I have not judged 
you hastily, because I believed that your nature was 
too noble to be guilty of petty meanness and decep- 
tion. I felt assured that there must have been a great 
and terrible struggle in your soul before you failed in 
loyalty to me, and, I thank God, I felt it in that 
first hour of sorrow and dismay. {Pause.) Farewell. 
I would that it had been mine to stand where that 
young man stood on that shameful night! (North- 
cote enters.) Mr. Northcote will see you to your 
coach. Eeturn home. I will do my best to restore 
your father to you. 

[He retires slowly into room r. Angelica, 
raising herself, gazes after him in silence, 
and then, tittering a sigh of deep emotion, 
she takes Northcote's arm; he leads her 
towards door l.) 

END OF SCENE I. 

Scene II. — A room in Angelica's house in Golden 
Square. Ground-floor; window centre looking 
out into the Square through the iron railings of 
the area {practically behind railings). Door of 
room l. opening into the hall passage. Key in 
door. The room is in confusion, partly fur- 
nished; some of the furniture is covered up with 
dusting-sheets. 

Angelica enters in great excitement, followed 
by an old servant. 



Act 4.] angelica. 77 

Angelica. Sheriff's officers in the house ? Impos- 
sible ! When did they come ? 

Servant. Half an hour ago. They forced their 
way in when I opened the door. 

Angelica. How dare they ! It must be some mis- 
take; I have no debts. Let me see the men. [Ser- 
vant goes to door. Sheriff's Officer enters.) What is 
the meaning of this ? 

Officer. Seizure of goods and chattels, ma'am, at 
the suit of Moses Levi. 

Angelica. But I owe the man nothing; this is 
my house, my furniture. 

Officer. Yes, ma'am, and therefore it is your 
husband's house and furniture; it must pay his debts. 

Angelica. Infamous ! 

Officer. It's the law, ma'am. Here's the writ. 

[Offers writ. 

Angelica. Is there no refuge left for me? (To 
servant:) Go to Mr. Bartolozzi's, find him somehow, 
somewhere ; I must see him at once. Tell him I have 
no friend — no friend to help me. Go, go ! 

[Exit servant. 

Officer. Don't ye take on, ma'am; friends turn 
up when least expected. A handsome young woman 
has always lots of friends. So cheer up, my pretty 
lady, cheer up. 

Angelica. Silence, man ! Do your work, but 
don't address me ! 

Officer. Hoity-toity ! No offence, no offence ! 
(Knock at street door.) There's a knock. A friend at 
last, I'll be bound ! (Galls: out into passage :) Open 
the door, Bill; servant's out. Show the visitor in — 
proper style, like a cove in plush. Bless ye, ma'am, 
we often does the plush and powder business; it's all 
in the day's work ! 

Angelica. It's Bartolozzi, I trust. How can he 
have deserted me now ? The fear of that accusation— 
but it's very cowardly; he ought to have stood side by 
side with my poor father, for he led him into this 
terrible difficulty. (Strossman enters.) You here ? 
You dare to enter my house ? Go, I say ! 



78 angelica. [Act 4. 

Strossman. Listen to me. I feared this seizure 
would take place. I knew that your property is the 
property of that impostor, liable to the last penny for 
his debts. These men shall not molest you ; I will free 
you from their presence (To officer :) What is the 
amount of the debt ? ( Officer shoius writ. Stross- 
man takes out notes, which he counts and gives to 
Officer.) Count them, and go ! 

[Officer counts notes.) 

Officer. Said a friend was bound to turn up, 
ma'am. Pretty faces have always lots of friends ! 

Strossman. Begone, fellow, at once ! 

Angelica. No, stay, stay! (Flies to officer.) I 
pray you to remain as long as that man remains in 
the house ! 

Officer. Must go, ma'am; debt's paid. No legal 
right to stay another minute. Action for trespass 
would lie against Sheriff. Good morning, pretty lady; 
you're in luck — lovers who pay like that ! 

[Officer goes out. 

Angelica. Will you go, or will you stay ? Answer 
me ! 

Strossman. Stay awhile, with your permission; I 
have something to say. 

Angelica. Keep your distance. I shall go if you 
dare to approach me. 

Strossman. Go, madam, you are free to go. You 
are free to treat me with insolence and scorn; to treat 
me as if I were a vulgar bully capable of using brute 
force against a woman. Contemptible thought ! 
mental force is my method, not vulgar muscle. You 
are free to go, I say; free to forget that your father 
stands accused of serious crime ! 

Angelica. Innocent ! 

Strossman. Let him prove it with the damning 
proof which stands against him, red-handed in his 
guilt, the forged seal concealed in his pocket. Let 
him prove it, I say. But if the accusation be pressed 
home, as I can press it, his chances of escape are small! 

Angelica. Merciful Heaven ! And you will— 
you will ! 



Act 4.] angelica. 79 

Strossman. Pray retire, madam; you desire to go. 
I shall not raise one finger to detain you. And that 
arch-impostor who has so cruelly deceived you, 
deceived us all — one tissue of lies and forgeries ! 

Angelica. You liar ! It's false, I say ! 

Strossman. You say ! What's the worth of your 
word ? Impetuosity and violence are no proofs. If 
the charges be pressed home, it's death to that man — 
to two men, that impostor and your father. Go, 
madam; I say so with reason. The debt I have just 
discharged transfers this house to me till you can 
acquit the debt. [Silence. 

Angelica. But if it were not pressed — not pressed ? 

Strossman. They might escape the law. But if the 
evidence to be given against my late valet to-morrow 
is actually given, he will be committed for trial, and 
I shall be bound over to prosecute. 

Angelica. And you will ? 

Strossman. I must ! He will be tried. The penalty 
of forgery is death ! 

Angelica. Innocent, I repeat; innocent ! 

Strossman. Evidence, not innocence! I will not 
detain you; it is useless to prolong this interview. 

[Sits. 

Angelica (approaching him). But you will not ? 
You cannot? (Falling on her knees.) I pray you by 
all that's sacred, as a daughter, as a wife — have mercy 
on a woman, a miserable woman! 

Strossman (aside). " By to-morrow morning, on 
her knees!" (Aloud.) Madam, I have my public duty 
to consider. Pray leave me; it is useless to strive thus; 
the law must have its course. This interview is too 
painful. If you decline to go, it must be for me to 
leave this house. [He rises from chair. She rises. 

Angelica. Not before a promise! Give me a 
promise! (Takes his hands.) Their lives! Their 
lives ! 

Strossman (withdraiving his hands). Their lives ? 
you beg their lives ? 

Angelica. I beg and pray, with tears, with a 
breaking heart ! 



80 angelica. [Act 4. 

Strossman. I cannot answer your prayer now. If 
you choose to renew this interview, you are at liberty 
to come to my villa in Chelsea at ten o'clock this 
evening. I will then consider what I may do to help 
you. Here is a private key — the garden entrance. 
[Offers key, which she flings doivn. 
Angelica. Vile wretch ! Inhuman monster ! Oh, 
accursed bargain ! My honour or their lives ! 

Strossman. You will pick up the key later — no 
need for these heroics. You come or you stay away; 
the choice is with you — their lives ! Farewell, 
madam, or au revoir, as you will. (She casts herself 
in an agony of despair on the sofa. He goes to door, 
turns and contemplates her. Aside:) Victory at last! 
At ten o'clock to-night she will come. I have won, 
my Lady Margaret ! 

[Turns to door and is about to go out, when 
Fersen staggers into the room. Strossman 
slinks back toivards window. Fersen locks 
the door and secures keg in his pocket; 
staggers to a chair. He is out of breath, 
panting with exhaustion. Angelica rises 
from the sofa with a cry, and kneeling, 
clasps him in her arms. 
Angelica. Husband — free ! 

Fersen (in broken tones). I have broken from the 
guard — a long chase. I outran them, but I fear they 
are on my traces. I fled here; the street door was on 
the latch. I've locked and bolted it. Breathing time, 
but in a few minutes they will tear me away. 
Angelica, my wife, how dare I meet you ? I have 
been deceived, I am not the deceiver — deceived by 
that scoundrel Strossman. I married you as Count de 
Home. The forgeries were his — his revenge for that 
night I saved you from outrage and shame ! 

Angelica. I guessed the truth. That evil hand! 
Fersen. wife deeply wronged, let me gaze in 
your eyes, and tell me you still have faith in my 
honour ! 

Angelica. Husband, dearest husband, my faith 
nas never wavered ! 



Act 4.] angelica. 81 

Fersen. Bless you for those words, noble 
woman! you have made me strong again — Fersen the 
valet. But love and honour were mine — the wrong 
was not mine. If I live, the wrong shall be avenged 
on that man's head ! 

Strossman. Lying impostor! You shall not live! 

Fersen (starts to his feet). You here — here, in 
this room with her, my wife? Some new outrage, the 
purpose of your vile scheme ! Eevenge is in my 
hands! Caged! I have the key. Better for you a 
lion's den than my anger and my wrongs ! 

Strossman. Fool! in a few minutes — 

Fersen. Then minutes are precious ! 

[He flies on Strossman. Strossman strug- 
gles to window. 

Strossman (at window, breaking panes of glass). 
Help! The scoundrel Fersen is in this room! Help! 
help! 

[Fersen drags Strossman bach from window 
and flings him on his knees. 

Fersen. Speak again and I'll tear the tongue from 
your lying throat! 

Strossman. They've heard — they were watching the 
house! (Rises and draws his sword.) My prisoner! 
They will break into this room and drag you away! 
(Aloud to crowd which gathers at railings.) Help ! 
Tell them to smash in the doors ! (Strossman keeps 
off Fersen with his sivord.) Yes, my scheme; the 
forged seal, my scheme; the imposture, I avow it. 
My scheme, to conquer that proud woman. And I've 
won! 

Fersen. He confesses the foul plot. Vile wretch ! 

Angelica. I shall declare it before the world — his 
own confession. (To Fersen:) You are saved! 

Strossman. A wife's evidence is no avail; no one 
else has heard my words. I'm no fool. Mine, I say, 
or your husband will be hanged from the front of 
Newgate ! 

Angelica. Fiend incarnate ! Heaven, can such 
things be ? 

Strossman. Aye, I'm master of life and death ! 



82 ahgelica. [Act 4. 

{Murmur of crowd, and voice without: " Open in the 
king's name!" Crash of street-door being forced.) 
Time is short. Bid your fair wife farewell, and leave 
her in my charge ! (Fersen tries to close with him.) 
Keep your distance, man, or I shall save the hang- 
man's work! (Cries:) Murder! murder! Help! help! 
[Noises and voices at door of room. Voice 
without: " Open in the king's name! Fer- 
sen catches up chair, rushes on Stross- 
man, breaks sword out of his hand, catches 
up sword, then turns and confronts 
Strossman. 

Strossman (in terror). Help! quick! Murder! 
(To Fersen:) You will be hanged if you injure me! 

Fersen. A man can die but once. A life for a life! 
It's quits now! vile monster ! they will be too 
late to save you. Death by my hands! Prepare: 
death at the moment the door is broken! 

[Blows on the door, which shakes under the strokes. 

Strossman. Help! help! Murder! Break down 
the door! 

[A panel of the door is broken, the pieces fly- 
ing into the room. 

Fersen (in loud voice). Hold your hands! An- 
other blow, and this man dies before your eyes. (To 
Strossman :) Tell them to hold their hands, if you 
want to live ! 

Strossman. Officers, hold your hands, I beg and 
pray ! 

Fersen. Pray! You shall pray, scoundrel! Down 
on your knees before the woman you have wronged ! 
(Angelica has sunk dazedinto chair.) Obey, man, or, 
by Heaven, you die ! To your knees, I say ! (Stross- 
man falls on his knees, facing Angelica and the 
door.) Pray! No, confession before absolution — confess 
the blackness of your soul before Heaven and men! 
Speak, or one quick thrust and you die! Speak! (In 
whisper:) " I fabricated the story of Fersen being 
Count de Home." Speak, man ! 

Strossman (in low tone). I fabricated the story 
of Fersen being Count de Home. 



Act 4.] angelica. 83 

Fersen. Louder, I say! Repeat the words! Let 
all honest men listen to your shame. 

Strossman {raising his voice). I fabricated the 
story of Fersen being Count de Home. 

Fersen. Tell the infamous story of your forgeries 
— quickly, or, by Heaven, you die! 

Strossman. I forged the royal decree; I forged the 
ambassador's signature to the direction for a new seal. 

Fersen. Go on! 

Strossman. I found moneys for Fersen 's dress and 
expenses, and I had him arrested for debt — arrested 
as an impostor and a forger. 

Fersen. Why did you do this wickedness ? Why, 
I say ? Answer, or I will wring the vile truth from 
your accursed throat! Why ? 

Strossman. That I might force this lady to listen 
to my dishonourable suit. 

Fersen. Confession black enough! Now pray — 
pray this lady's pardon for the grievous wrong ! 

Strossman. Madam, I humbly crave your pardon ! 

Fersen. Pray to her mercy for your vile life ! 

Strossman. Save me — save me, gracious lady ! 

Angelica {in alow voice). Spare him — 

Fersen. Enough; your life is spared ! {He flings 
down sword, unlocks door, throws it open.) I submit 
to the law ! 

[Boiv Street officers enter, folloiued by the 
Siuedish ambassador, Sir Joshua, and 
Kauffmann, — who goes to his daughter 
and embraces her, — and afterwards by 
Miss Reynolds. 

Strossman {aside). The ambassador! I'm lost! 
( To Ambassador:) I trust that your Excellency will 
give no heed to words forced from my lips at the 
point of the sword ! 

Ambass. Count Strossman, you will at once report 
yourself at the Embassy; the truth of your confession 
will be closely tested. I suspect you have certain ac- 
complices; they will be examined forthwith. With 
regard to this young man — unfortunate and deeply 
wronged, I believe — I will accept the undertaking of 



84 angelica. [Act 4. 

any responsible person for his appearance at the Em- 
bassy when required. Meantime the charges against 
him are withdrawn. 

Sir J. I accept the responsibility of Mr. Fersen's 
appearance. 

Ambass. Your word, Sir Joshua, is amply sufficient. 
Count Strossman, you had better follow me; the en- 
quiry must proceed at once. 

[Bowing to Sir Joshua, goes out. 

Strossman (aside). Lost in the moment of 
triumph! the promise of a life wrecked! Madness! 
A great career — only a woman! [About to go. 

Fersen. Do not let us meet again, Count Stross- 
man. I have given you your life that this lady's 
honour and my own might be vindicated by truth 
wrung from your vile lips; but the next time we 
meet it will be short shrift and sure death! (Stross- 
man goes out. To Angelica:) And now, lady 
deeply loved and yet cruelly wronged in innocence 
by me, I make the last reparation in my power. I 
shall leave this country as soon as the law permits, 
your husband but in name. The marriage of a 
Protestant with a Catholic — I am told that the law 
will grant you an easy divorce. You will be free; and 
I pray that the recollection of the valet Fersen 
may pass away from your memory like the trouble of 
an evil dream. He will bear with him a great sorrow 
— haply not for long, for some wounds of the heart 
never heal, and the life-blood ebbs silently away; and 
yet, with all that weight of sorrow, he will bear the 
happiness of a conscience devoid of all guilt towards 
the woman he has so deeply loved and honoured. 

Kauffmann (going up to Fersen). Young 
man, you have made the best reparation in your 
power. I forgive you. (Clasps his hand.) My 
daughter free ! 

Angelica. No, father, for ever no! Bound by 
holy ordinance; bound by all that can bind a woman's 
heart — respect for a man's nobleness and honour, 
sympathy for noble and unmerited suffering! 

Fersen. The valet Fersen! 



A(T 4.] ANGELICA. 85 

Angelica. No, my husband — the husband of An- 
gelica Kauffmann! (To Fkrsen:) You would have 
raised me to your estate, the honours of a great king- 
dom. I raise you to mine, the kingdom of art — my 
honoured husband! [She clasps him in her anus. 

Sir J. (to Kauff.). She lias spoken well, Mr. 
Kauffmann. 1 honour her. Good-bye! [Turns to go. 

Miss R. (clasping Sir Joshua's hand). Dear, 
good, noble Joshua! 

Sir J. Dear, foolish sister Fanny! Nay, we must be 
getting home; Dr Johnson will be waiting. 

[Takes Miss Reynolds's arm; they turn to go. 



t I'KTAI V. 



